Overview
CVE-2025-20353 details a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found within the web-based management interface of Cisco Catalyst Center. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated, remote attacker to execute arbitrary script code within the browser of a user interacting with the affected interface. By tricking a user into clicking a specially crafted link, an attacker can potentially gain access to sensitive browser-based information or manipulate the interface on behalf of the victim.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user-supplied input within the Cisco Catalyst Center’s web management interface. Specifically, when processing certain data provided by users, the system fails to adequately sanitize or encode the input before rendering it in the web page. This lack of validation allows an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code into a request. If a legitimate user clicks on a crafted link containing this malicious code, the script will execute in their browser within the context of the Catalyst Center web application.
CVSS Analysis
The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) assigns CVE-2025-20353 a score of 6.1, indicating a MEDIUM severity. This score reflects the potential impact of the vulnerability, considering factors such as the ease of exploitation, the scope of affected systems, and the potential for data compromise. The specific vector string is not publicly available at this time, but the overall score indicates the exploit requires user interaction.
Possible Impact
A successful exploitation of CVE-2025-20353 can lead to several detrimental outcomes, including:
- Session Hijacking: An attacker could steal the user’s session cookie, allowing them to impersonate the user and gain unauthorized access to the Cisco Catalyst Center.
- Data Theft: Sensitive data displayed within the interface, such as network configurations, user credentials, or other confidential information, could be stolen.
- Malicious Redirection: Users could be redirected to phishing websites designed to steal their credentials or install malware.
- Defacement: The web-based management interface could be defaced, disrupting normal operations and potentially causing reputational damage.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
To address CVE-2025-20353, Cisco has released a security advisory and provided software updates for affected versions of Cisco Catalyst Center. It is strongly recommended that administrators apply the appropriate patch as soon as possible. The advisory lists the affected versions and the corresponding fixed software releases.
- Identify Affected Systems: Determine if your Cisco Catalyst Center deployment is running a vulnerable version of the software.
- Apply the Patch: Download and install the appropriate software update from Cisco. Follow Cisco’s documented upgrade procedures.
- Monitor for Suspicious Activity: After applying the patch, closely monitor your network and systems for any signs of malicious activity or unauthorized access.
