CVE-2025-20309 Overview
A vulnerability in Cisco Unified Communications Manager (Unified CM) and Cisco Unified Communications Manager Session Management Edition (Unified CM SME) could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to log in to an affected device using the root account, which has default, static credentials that cannot be changed or deleted.
Critical Impact
This flaw allows attackers root access, leading to full system control.
Affected Products
- Cisco Unified Communications Manager 15.0.1.13010-1
- Cisco Unified Communications Manager Session Management Edition 15.0.1.13010-1
- Cisco Unified Communications Manager 15.0.1.13011-1
Discovery Timeline
- Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
- Not Available - Responsible disclosure to Cisco
- Not Available - CVE CVE-2025-20309 assigned
- Not Available - Cisco releases security patch
- 2025-07-02 - CVE CVE-2025-20309 published to NVD
- 2025-07-03 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-20309
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability arises due to the use of hardcoded credentials for the root account, which are meant for development use only. These credentials allow attackers to log in with root privileges and execute arbitrary commands, compromising the entire system.
Root Cause
The presence of static credentials for the root account that cannot be deleted or modified.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is network-based, enabling remote exploitation via SSH with the hardcoded credentials.
# Example exploitation scenario
ssh root@vulnerable-device-ip
# Password: <static-root-password>
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-20309
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual login activity from unknown IP addresses
- New, unauthorized root-level processes
- Unexpected changes to configuration files
Detection Strategies
Analyze login logs for anomalous activity, monitor for unauthorized access and changes, and alert on unrecognized IP connections.
Monitoring Recommendations
Deploy continuous monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized logins and privilege escalations. Use SentinelOne's behavioral AI capabilities to automatically flag abnormal system behavior indicative of exploitation.
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-20309
Immediate Actions Required
- Isolate affected devices from the network
- Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity
- Change all administrative passwords immediately
Patch Information
Consult Cisco's official advisory for patching instructions to address the default credentials vulnerability:
Cisco Security Advisory
Workarounds
Replace the affected devices or disable remote login services until a patch can be applied.
# Disable remote login for root
sudo passwd -l root
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
