Cisco BroadWorks Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference Vulnerability
Cisco — BroadWorks
- Added to KEV catalog
- 10 November 2026
- Federal remediation due date
- 24 November 2026
- Weakness classification (CWE)
- CWE-611
AI Breakdown
What it is
Cisco BroadWorks contains an XML external entity vulnerability in its Open Client Interface provisioning service. An unauthenticated remote attacker can exploit this flaw by sending a crafted XML message to the system. This allows the attacker to read sensitive configuration files from the filesystem using the privileges of the BroadWorks user.
Why it matters
This flaw allows attackers to steal sensitive configuration data remotely without needing credentials, presenting a significant security risk. CISA has added this issue to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, signaling confirmed active exploitation. While direct use in ransomware campaigns is currently unknown, immediate remediation is required due to the active threat.
Recommended action
IT teams must immediately apply vendor mitigations and security updates in accordance with CISA BOD 26-04 guidance and evaluate internet exposure. Organizations should also follow CISA forensics triage requirements to investigate potential compromise on affected systems. If vendor mitigations are unavailable, administrators must follow applicable cloud guidance or discontinue use of the product.
AI-generated from CISA and NVD data — treat as a starting point, not a substitute for your own risk assessment.
CISA Description
Cisco BroadWorks contains an improper restriction of XML external entity reference vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to read sensitive configuration information on an affected system.
Required action
Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
Notes
https://sec.cloudapps.cisco.com/security/center/content/CiscoSecurityAdvisory/cisco-sa-bworks-xxe-uwUd7CEt ; BOD 26-04: https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/directives/bod-26-04-prioritizing-security-updates-based-risk ; Forensics Triage Requirements: https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/directives/bod-26-04-implementation-guidance-prioritizing-security-updates-based-risk ; https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-20320
NVD Technical Description
A vulnerability in the Open Client Interface (OCI) XML Parser of Cisco BroadWorks could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to read sensitive configuration information on an affected system. This vulnerability exists because XML entries are improperly parsed due to external entity resolution being allowed by default. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a crafted XML message to the Open Client Interface – Provisioning (OCI-P) service. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to view sensitive files from the filesystem with the privileges of the Cisco BroadWorks user.
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