CVE-2026-20115 in IOS XE
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2026
A vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco Meraki could allow a remote, unauthenticated attacker to view confidential device information. This vulnerability is due to a device configuration upload being performed over an insecure tunnel. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by conducting an on-path attack between the affected device and the Cisco Meraki Dashboard. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to view sensitive device configuration information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2026
This vulnerability exists within Cisco IOS XE Software running on Cisco Meraki devices, representing a significant security weakness that undermines the confidentiality of critical network infrastructure. The flaw stems from the improper handling of device configuration uploads that occur over insecure communication channels, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors. The vulnerability specifically affects the communication between affected Cisco Meraki devices and the Cisco Meraki Dashboard, which serves as the centralized management platform for these network devices. Attackers can leverage this weakness through on-path attack techniques, positioning themselves between the vulnerable device and its management interface to intercept and access sensitive configuration data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the transmission of device configuration information over unencrypted or inadequately secured communication protocols, violating fundamental security principles for network device management. This insecure tunnel allows for man-in-the-middle attacks where an unauthenticated attacker can capture and decrypt sensitive information flowing between the device and the dashboard. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear failure in implementing proper cryptographic protections for device management communications, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of network infrastructure configuration data. According to CWE guidelines, this represents a weakness in cryptographic communication protocols where sensitive data is transmitted without adequate encryption or authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed device configurations can reveal critical network topology details, administrative credentials, security policies, and other sensitive operational data. An attacker gaining access to this information could perform advanced persistent threat activities, map network architecture, identify additional attack vectors, or conduct targeted social engineering campaigns against network administrators. The vulnerability's remote and unauthenticated nature makes it particularly dangerous as it requires no prior access credentials or privileged positions to exploit. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which involves credential harvesting and information gathering through network reconnaissance and reconnaissance activities.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing secure communication protocols for device management, including mandatory use of encrypted connections with strong cryptographic algorithms. Network administrators should ensure that all device configuration uploads occur over secure channels such as TLS 1.3 or higher, with proper certificate validation and mutual authentication. Regular security assessments should verify that device management communications are properly secured and that no insecure tunnels exist between network devices and management platforms. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual communication patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of following security standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO/IEC 27001, which emphasize the protection of sensitive information through secure communication channels and proper access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control measures and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access to device management interfaces.