CVE-2025-20188 Scanner

Cisco IOS XE WLC is used by organizations worldwide for managing wireless LAN controllers to facilitate network connectivity and control. It provides a unified platform for deploying and managing wireless networks, offering features such as enhanced security, scalability, and ease of management. Network administrators use this software to ensure reliable wireless communication in diverse environments. In enterprises, educational institutions, and manufacturing facilities, Cisco IOS XE WLC is utilized to support a large number of access points and clients. The software plays a crucial role in maintaining stable wireless networks, where reliability and performance are demanded. Its comprehensive functionalities cater to complex wireless networking requirements.

The arbitrary file upload vulnerability allows attackers to upload files to a system without proper authentication. This vulnerability stems from hard-coded JSON Web Tokens (JWT) in the system, allowing an attacker to craft HTTPS requests to target the AP image download interface. A successful exploitation could result in unauthorized file uploads, path traversal, and execution of arbitrary commands with root privileges. This poses a significant security risk as it enables remote code execution by unauthenticated users. Detecting and addressing this vulnerability is essential to prevent system compromise. The vulnerability can lead to severe security breaches if left unpatched.

The vulnerability is present in the Out-of-Band Access Point (AP) Image Download feature of Cisco IOS XE WLC due to the usage of a hard-coded JWT. Attackers exploit this by crafting HTTPS requests to the AP image download interface and include a specific JWT in their requests to manipulate the file upload process. The uploaded files can traverse paths and execute commands, compromising the system's integrity and security. The endpoint responsible for file uploads does not adequately verify the authenticity of upload requests. Once the JWT associated with the system is reverse-engineered, attackers can freely upload files to arbitrary locations. These locations include critical system paths, leading to extensive damage.

Exploiting this vulnerability could result in a complete system takeover by unauthorized individuals. Attackers could execute arbitrary code with root privileges, potentially deploying malware, stealing sensitive data, or disrupting network services. The vulnerability can lead to data breaches, network outages, and damages to organizational reputation. If exploited in critical environments, it can compromise not only the systems but also the data and services reliant upon the wireless network. The financial and operational impacts can be severe, including regulatory penalties if sensitive data is accessed or exposed. Promptly mitigating this vulnerability is vital to maintaining network security and integrity.

REFERENCES

• https://sec.cloudapps.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-wlc-file-uplpd-rHZG9UfC
• https://horizon3.ai/attack-research/attack-blogs/cisco-ios-xe-wlc-arbitrary-file-upload-vulnerability-cve-2025-20188-analysis/