CVE-2026-20046
Privilege Escalation in Cisco IOS XR via CLI Task Group Bypass
Publication date: 2026-03-11
Last updated on: 2026-03-11
Assigner: Cisco Systems, Inc.
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
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Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| cisco | ios_xr_software | * |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-264 | Permissions, Privileges, and Access Controls |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
This vulnerability exists in the task group assignment for a specific CLI command in Cisco IOS XR Software. It is caused by incorrect mapping of a command to task groups within the source code.
An authenticated local attacker with a low-privileged account can exploit this flaw by using the CLI command to bypass task group–based authorization checks.
Successful exploitation allows the attacker to elevate their privileges and gain full administrative control over the affected device.
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
If exploited, this vulnerability can allow an attacker with limited access to escalate their privileges to full administrative control on the affected Cisco IOS XR device.
This means the attacker could perform unauthorized actions, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the device and its data.
How does this vulnerability affect compliance with common standards and regulations (like GDPR, HIPAA)?:
I don't know
How can this vulnerability be detected on my network or system? Can you suggest some commands?
I don't know
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
I don't know