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Static Credentials Flaw Patched in Cisco Systems

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Network Firewalls, Network Access Control
,
Security Operations

Flaw Exposes Remote Privilege Escalation Risk

Prajeet Nair (@prajeetspeaks) •
July 3, 2025    

Static Credentials Flaw Patched in Cisco Systems
Image: Anucha Cheechang/Shutterstock

Cisco released urgent security updates to fix a critical vulnerability in Unified Communications Manager that could allow unauthenticated attackers gain root access to affected systems.

See Also: OnDemand Webinar | Trends, Threats and Expert Takeaways: 2025 Global IR Report Insights

The maximum-severity vulnerability in Cisco’s Unified CM and Session Management Edition allows unauthenticated remote attackers to log in as the root user using static development credentials, Cisco warned in a advisory.

The flaw, tracked as CVE-2025-20309, with a CVSS score of 10.0, stems from the inclusion of hardcoded root credentials in select engineering special builds of Unified CM 15.0.1.13010-1 through 15.0.1.13017-1. These static credentials, intended for development use, cannot be changed or removed by administrators, making exploitation trivial for attackers who obtain access.

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Cisco Unified Communications Manager, or Unified CM, is used primarily by large enterprises, government agencies, educational institutions and service providers that require robust, scalable voice and video communication infrastructure.

A successful exploit could allow the attacker to log in to the affected system and execute arbitrary commands as the root user, Cisco said. “There are no workarounds that address this vulnerability.”

Cisco released a patch file and confirmed the vulnerability is fixed in Unified CM version 15SU3. Versions 12.5 and 14 are not affected and no service updates for any release are vulnerable.

The vulnerability was discovered during internal security testing and Cisco’s Product Security Incident Response Team said it is not aware of any active exploitation.

Indicators of compromise include log entries showing successful root logins via SSH in the /var/log/active/syslog/secure file. Cisco advises customers to inspect their systems using the CLI command: file get activelog syslog/secure. Sample log entries show sshd activity followed by a session opened for root with UID=0.

Because the flaw allows privilege escalation without requiring authentication, Cisco urged all customers running vulnerable builds to apply the patch or upgrade immediately.

Customers without active Cisco service contracts but who purchased devices through official channels are eligible to receive the security fix by contacting Cisco TAC and referencing this advisory.





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    Automating Security Auditing and Compliance

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    Embracing the Journey: Continuous Learning and Certification for Ethical Hackers

    Becoming an ethical hacker requires diverse skills and knowledge. Understanding the types of hackers is crucial, as it provides insights into how they operate. Armed with this knowledge, ethical hackers delve into cutting-edge tools and techniques. They leverage their skills to identify vulnerabilities and devise countermeasures.

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    The Tools of Ethical Hacking

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    References:

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    8) Darknet/Dark Web

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    10) Botnet

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    Understanding cybersecurity is not just for the tech-savvy; it's for everyone. We are all potential targets for cyber threats, and comprehension of basic cybersecurity terminology can make a significant difference in safeguarding ourselves and our digital assets.

    Employing cybersecurity measures also helps to keep your digital data safe. This might include using a VPN, enabling two-factor authentication, or simply being wary of suspicious emails to prevent phishing attacks.

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