Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
Cisco Identity Services Engine and Cisco ISE-PIC have a vulnerability related to how they process API requests. This flaw could permit an unauthorized, remote attacker to run unauthorized code on the affected systems with full administrative privileges. This is possible because the system does not properly validate information provided by users in API requests.
- Cisco Identity Services Engine and ISE-PIC
- Insufficient input validation in API
- Unauthorized code execution with root privileges
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
An unauthenticated, remote attacker could potentially execute arbitrary code on affected Cisco systems. This vulnerability arises from insufficient validation of user-supplied input within a specific API. Attackers can exploit this by sending a specially crafted API request. Successful exploitation could grant the attacker root privileges on the compromised device.
- Exposure via network API.
- Attacker sends crafted API request.
- Attacker gains root control.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
A critical vulnerability exists in Cisco Identity Services Engine and Cisco ISE-PIC that could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges. This is achieved by submitting a crafted API request, bypassing the need for any credentials. The risk to organizations is significant, as a successful exploit could grant attackers complete control over affected systems.
- Attackers require low skill.
- No access or conditions needed.
- High business risk; treat as urgent.
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
An organization's information technology team should take immediate action to address a critical vulnerability in Cisco Identity Services Engine and Cisco Identity Services Engine-PIC. This vulnerability could permit an unauthenticated, remote attacker to gain root-level control of the underlying operating system by submitting a specially crafted API request. Exploiting this could lead to unauthorized access and execution of arbitrary code.
- Identify all Cisco ISE and ISE-PIC assets.
- Reduce exposure by isolating affected systems.
- Apply vendor fixes and validate their implementation.
- Monitor for related suspicious activity.
