Vulnerability Description
A vulnerability in a specific API of Cisco ISE and Cisco ISE-PIC could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system as root. The attacker does not require any valid credentials to exploit this vulnerability. This vulnerability is due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by submitting a crafted API request. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to obtain root privileges on an affected device.
CVSS Score
CRITICAL
Affected Products
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Cisco | Identity Services Engine | 3.3.0 |
| Cisco | Identity Services Engine Passive Identity Connector | 3.3.0 |
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://sec.cloudapps.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/ciVendor Advisory
- https://www.cisa.gov/known-exploited-vulnerabilities-catalog?field_cve=CVE-2025-US Government Resource
- https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/blog/2025/7/24/cve-2025-20281-cisco-ise-api-unExploitThird Party Advisory
FAQ
What is CVE-2025-20281?
CVE-2025-20281 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 10.0 (CRITICAL). A vulnerability in a specific API of Cisco ISE and Cisco ISE-PIC could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system as root. The attacker does...
How severe is CVE-2025-20281?
CVE-2025-20281 has been rated CRITICAL with a CVSS base score of 10.0/10. This is considered a critical vulnerability requiring immediate attention.
Is there a patch for CVE-2025-20281?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Cisco Identity Services Engine, Cisco Identity Services Engine Passive Identity Connector.