CVE-2026-20163
Arbitrary Command Execution in Splunk via unarchive_cmd Parameter
Publication date: 2026-03-11
Last updated on: 2026-03-24
Assigner: Cisco Systems, Inc.
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
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Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| splunk | splunk_cloud_platform | From 10.1.2507 (inc) to 10.1.2507.16 (exc) |
| splunk | splunk_cloud_platform | From 10.2.2510 (inc) to 10.2.2510.5 (exc) |
| splunk | splunk_cloud_platform | From 10.0.2503 (inc) to 10.0.2503.12 (exc) |
| splunk | splunk_cloud_platform | From 9.3.2411 (inc) to 9.3.2411.124 (exc) |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-77 | The product constructs all or part of a command using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended command when it is sent to a downstream component. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
CVE-2026-20163 is a high-severity remote command execution vulnerability in Splunk Enterprise and Splunk Cloud Platform. It affects certain versions of these products where a user with a high-privilege role containing the capability `edit_cmd` can exploit insufficient input sanitization of the `unarchive_cmd` parameter in the `/splunkd/__upload/indexing/preview` REST endpoint.
This flaw allows such a user to execute arbitrary shell commands on the affected system, which is linked to improper neutralization of special elements used in commands (CWE-77).
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
If exploited, this vulnerability allows an attacker with the `edit_cmd` capability to execute arbitrary shell commands remotely on the affected Splunk system.
This can lead to full compromise of the system, including unauthorized access, data manipulation, or disruption of services.
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?
No specific detection methods or commands for identifying this vulnerability on a network or system are provided in the available information.
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
To mitigate this vulnerability, upgrade Splunk Enterprise to versions 10.2.0, 10.0.4, 9.4.9, or 9.3.10, or upgrade Splunk Cloud Platform to the corresponding fixed versions.
If upgrading immediately is not possible, remove the high-privilege capability `edit_cmd` from user roles to prevent exploitation.