CVE-2016-6415
Published: May 19, 2023
Official Description
Cisco IOS, IOS XR, and IOS XE contain insufficient condition checks in the part of the code that handles Internet Key Exchange version 1 (IKEv1) security negotiation requests. contains an information disclosure vulnerability in the Internet Key Exchange version 1 (IKEv1) that could allow an attacker to retrieve memory contents. Successful exploitation could allow the attacker to retrieve memory contents, which can lead to information disclosure.
CISA KEV Advisory
Cisco IOS, IOS XR, and IOS XE IKEv1 Information Disclosure Vulnerability
Cisco IOS, IOS XR, and IOS XE contain insufficient condition checks in the part of the code that handles Internet Key Exchange version 1 (IKEv1) security negotiation requests. contains an information disclosure vulnerability in the Internet Key Exchange version 1 (IKEv1) that could allow an attacker to retrieve memory contents. Successful exploitation could allow the attacker to retrieve memory contents, which can lead to information disclosure.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
Cisco IOS, IOS XR, and IOS XE contain an information disclosure vulnerability in the Internet Key Exchange version 1 (IKEv1) due to insufficient condition checks. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to retrieve memory contents, potentially exposing sensitive information. The high EPSS score of 0.92999 indicates a very high likelihood of exploitation, demanding immediate attention.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild and is included in CISA's KEV catalog, confirming its use by adversaries. The nature of the flaw suggests it can be exploited remotely.
Cisco users should apply the latest security updates for IOS, IOS XR, and IOS XE to address this vulnerability. Disabling IKEv1 if not required can also reduce exposure.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2016-6415 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2016-6415 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2016-6415 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1