CVE-2020-3538: A vulnerability in a certain REST API endpoint of Cisco Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker...

Description

A vulnerability in a certain REST API endpoint of Cisco Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to perform a path traversal attack on an affected device. The vulnerability is due to insufficient path restriction enforcement. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted HTTP requests to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to overwrite or list arbitrary files on the affected device.Cisco has released software updates that address this vulnerability. There are no workarounds that address this vulnerability.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

8.1/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:N

EPSS Probability

0.50%

39.0th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Cisco	Data Center Network Manager	< 11.4\(1\)

References

Timeline

Published: Nov 18, 2024
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Analyzed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2020-3538?

A vulnerability in a certain REST API endpoint of Cisco Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to perform a path traversal attack on an affected device. The vulnerability is due to insufficient path restriction enforcement. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted HTTP requests to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to overwrite or list arbitrary files on the affected device.Cisco has released software updates that address this vulnerability. There are no workarounds that address this vulnerability.

How severe is CVE-2020-3538?

CVE-2020-3538 has a CVSS score of 8.1/10 (HIGH severity). The EPSS model estimates a 0.50% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2020-3538?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.