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Cisco IOS/XE Vulnerability Allows Unauthorized Access to Confidential Data

Cisco has disclosed a high-severity vulnerability (CVE-2025-20160) in its IOS and IOS XE software platforms. The issue arises due to improper validation of the TACACS+ shared secret configuration.

IBy Iris EmersonSep 25, 20251 min read

Cisco has disclosed a high-severity vulnerability (CVE-2025-20160) in its IOS and IOS XE software platforms. The issue arises due to improper validation of the TACACS+ shared secret configuration.

The flaw is present because the software fails to ensure a TACACS+ shared secret is configured before processing authentication requests. If no secret is set, attackers can intercept or manipulate authentication messages, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or full control over the device.

An attacker on the network path may read unencrypted TACACS+ messages or impersonate the TACACS+ server. Crafting specific responses can allow the attacker to bypass authentication, granting administrative access to affected routers and switches. This exposure includes configuration data, credentials, and other sensitive information.

CVE Affected Products CVSS 3.1 Score

CVE-2025-20160 Cisco IOS and IOS XE Software with TACACS+ configured without a shared secret 8.1 (High)

Cisco has disclosed a high-severity vulnerability (CVE-2025-20160) in its IOS and IOS XE software platforms.
Iris Emerson · Thehackingpost

Devices running vulnerable IOS or IOS XE releases configured for TACACS+ without a shared secret are at risk. Potential impacts include unauthorized disclosure of TACACS+ payloads and complete authentication bypass, providing full administrative privileges.

To date, Cisco has not observed any public exploits or malicious activities targeting this vulnerability.

Cisco strongly advises customers to apply the provided software updates immediately. Details of fixed releases can be found in the advisory's "Fixed Software" section.

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As an interim measure, administrators should ensure that each TACACS+ server configured on a device has a valid shared secret. Use the show running-config | include tacacs server|key command to verify the presence of a key line for each TACACS+ server entry.

Upon confirming proper key configuration, administrators are advised to plan an upgrade to a fixed IOS or IOS XE version at the earliest opportunity.

Based on reporting by GBHackers.

AI transparency. This article was produced with the assistance of artificial intelligence and published under human editorial oversight. AI systems can make mistakes. Read how we use AI (EU AI Act, Art. 50).
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