CVE-2005-3481

What it is

Cisco IOS 12.0 to 12.4 might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a heap-based buffer overflow in system timers. NOTE: this issue does not correspond to a specific vulnerability, rather a general weakness that only increases the feasibility of exploitation of any vulnerabilities that might exist. Such design-level weaknesses normally are not included in CVE, so perhaps this issue should be REJECTed.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network without logging in. High risk of data exposure, data tampering, service disruption.

Exploit odds

7.1% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

A patch, advisory or fixed version is referenced. Upgrade or apply it.

Timeline

1. 2005-11-03 02:02 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-16 22:17 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 7.1% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 9.3 HIGH (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2005-11-03 02:02 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-16 22:17 UTC

Exploit probability

7.1% · EPSS, next 30 days

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Cisco iOS 12.0
• Cisco iOS 12.0da
• Cisco iOS 12.0db
• Cisco iOS 12.0dc
• Cisco iOS 12.0s
• Cisco iOS 12.0sc
• Cisco iOS 12.0sl
• Cisco iOS 12.0sp

Attack profile CVSS 2.0 · 9.3

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Medium

Authentication

None

Confidentiality

Complete

Integrity

Complete

Availability

Complete

Is it in your code?

Hand this to your coding agent. It searches your project for the affected products and checks versions. Nothing leaves your machine.

Read https://cve-list.com/agent/cve/CVE-2005-3481.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2005-3481. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

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