Cisco Alerts Users to Critical ISE Vulnerability Allowing Unauthenticated Root Access

On July 17, 2025, Cisco revealed a critical security flaw in its Identity Services Engine (ISE) and ISE Passive Identity Connector (ISE-PIC) that could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the operating system with elevated privileges. Labeled CVE-2025-20337, this vulnerability has a CVSS score of 10.0 and is akin to CVE-2025-20281, which was resolved by Cisco last month.

According to Cisco’s advisory, “Multiple vulnerabilities in a specific API of Cisco ISE and ISE-PIC could permit an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code as root without requiring any valid credentials.” The vulnerabilities stem from inadequate validation of user-supplied input, allowing an attacker to exploit them through specially crafted API requests. A successful exploit could result in extensive control over the affected systems.

Cisco Issues Urgent Alert on High-Severity Vulnerability in ISE Software

July 17, 2025
Vulnerability / Network Security

Cisco has recently unveiled a serious security vulnerability affecting its Identity Services Engine (ISE) and the Cisco ISE Passive Identity Connector (ISE-PIC). Officially cataloged as CVE-2025-20337, this flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the associated operating system with root privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning, receiving a critical CVSS score of 10.0, which signifies its potential for severe impact.

In an advisory, Cisco illustrated the risks associated with the flaw, explaining that multiple vulnerabilities in a specific API of the ISE and ISE-PIC could be exploited without any valid user credentials. This underscores a critical lapse in validating user-supplied inputs, which creates a window for attackers to submit specially crafted API requests. Such successful exploits could lead to unauthorized access and control over the underlying system, raising significant security concerns for organizations utilizing Cisco’s hardware and software.

This disclosure follows closely on the heels of another related vulnerability, CVE-2025-20281, which Cisco addressed last month. The timing highlights an urgent need for companies leveraging Cisco’s technologies to act swiftly in assessing their environments for potential exposure.

The threat landscape surrounding network security is escalating, particularly as organizations increasingly rely on interconnected systems. This vulnerability not only compromises the integrity of the affected services but also creates a potential pathway for further attacks, as hackers may deploy additional tactics once initial access is gained.

Cybersecurity professionals should note that, based on the MITRE ATT&CK framework, several adversary tactics could be utilized in exploiting this vulnerability. Initial access could be obtained through the crafted API requests, while privilege escalation could occur as attackers leverage their unauthorized access to gain heightened control over the systems. The lack of required user credentials also makes detection and prevention efforts highly challenging for IT security departments.

Given the critical nature of this vulnerability, companies are strongly advised to prioritize the immediate evaluation and patching of their Cisco ISE and ISE-PIC installations. Ensuring that systems are updated and monitoring for any unauthorized activities can significantly mitigate the risks associated with this type of exploit.

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, vigilance is crucial. Organizations must remain proactive in their defense strategies, staying informed about emerging vulnerabilities and implementing robust security measures to safeguard their digital assets against increasingly sophisticated attacks.

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