CVE-2023-20115

What it is

A vulnerability in the SFTP server implementation for Cisco Nexus 3000 Series Switches and 9000 Series Switches in standalone NX-OS mode could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to download or overwrite files from the underlying operating system of an affected device. This vulnerability is due to a logic error when verifying the user role when an SFTP connection is opened to an affected device. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by connecting and authenticating via SFTP as a valid, non-administrator user. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to read or overwrite files from the underlying operating system with the privileges of the authenticated user. There are workarounds that address this vulnerability.

At a glance

Exploitability

Can be exploited over the network with a low-privilege account. Limited direct impact.

Exploit odds

0.6% chance of exploitation in the next 30 days (EPSS).

Fix

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

Timeline

1. 2023-08-23 19:15 UTC PublishedDisclosed publicly on CVE.org and NVD
2. 2026-06-17 05:29 UTC Last updatedMost recent change to the record

Why it ranks here

• Exploited in the wild: no, CISA does not list it.
• Exploit odds: 0.6% in the next 30 days (EPSS).
• Severity: 5.4 MEDIUM (CVSS).
• Fix: a patch or advisory is linked.

Details

Published

2023-08-23 19:15 UTC

Last modified

2026-06-17 05:29 UTC

Exploit probability

0.6% · EPSS, next 30 days

Weakness

CWE-671

Record status

Modified

Affected

• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(1\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(2\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(2t\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(2v\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(3\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.2\(4\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.3\(1\)
• Cisco nx-os 9.3\(2\)

Attack profile CVSS 3.1 · 5.4

Attack vector

Network

Complexity

Low

Privileges needed

Low

User interaction

None

Scope

Unchanged

Confidentiality

Low

Integrity

Low

Availability

None

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-2023-20115.md and follow it. Check whether this project is affected by CVE-2023-20115. Read only. Don't change anything and don't upload my code. Tell me yes, no or not sure, with the file as proof.

Copy as ticket · More options · Status badge