DIRAS TAKE
Urgent: this is a remote, unauthenticated full‑compromise bug (CVSS 10.0) that can be triggered over the network, so immediately isolate vulnerable ISE instances from untrusted networks and apply Cisco guidance as a priority.
What is CVE-2026-20130?
An unauthenticated network attacker can execute arbitrary code and take full control of Cisco Identity Services Engine Software; tracked as CVE-2026-20130. The flaw stems from improper neutralization of special elements (CWE-74) and affects Cisco ISE 3.1.0, 3.1.0 p1 through p6, 3.2.0 and 3.2.0 p1–p2. An attacker only needs network access to a vulnerable ISE instance; no credentials or user interaction are required.
Vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H
Which versions of Cisco Cisco Identity Services Engine Software are affected?
| BRANCH | AFFECTED | FIXED |
|---|---|---|
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p1 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p3 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p2 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.2.0 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p4 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p5 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.2.0 p1 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.1.0 p6 | |
| Cisco Identity Services Engine Software 3.x | 3.2.0 p2 |
Is CVE-2026-20130 being exploited?
There are no public reports of exploitation as of 2026-09-30.
How to fix CVE-2026-20130
- Restrict network exposure of Cisco Identity Services Engine; block access from untrusted networks and the internet.
- Follow Cisco’s vendor guidance and advisories for this vulnerability and any temporary workarounds.
- Monitor ISE logs and network traffic for signs of unauthorized access or anomalous commands.
- Plan to apply vendor fixes or upgrades once Cisco releases patched versions; consider isolating or replacing affected appliances until patched.
Frequently asked questions
Is CVE-2026-20130 being actively exploited?
There are no public reports of active exploitation of CVE-2026-20130 as of 2026-09-30.
Which Cisco Identity Services Engine versions are affected by CVE-2026-20130?
Cisco Identity Services Engine 3.1.0, 3.1.0 p1 through p6, 3.2.0, and 3.2.0 p1–p2 are listed as affected.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-20130?
No fixed versions are listed in the provided facts; administrators should follow Cisco advisories for forthcoming patches and apply vendor guidance.
Does CVE-2026-20130 require authentication?
No; the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication against Cisco Identity Services Engine.
References
- nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-20130
- cve.org/CVERecord?id=CVE-2026-20130
- sec.cloudapps.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-hardening-ise-XU5EwX5T
- All Cisco CVEs on CVE Radar
- CVEs published in September 2026