CVE-2020-8243
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure contains an unspecified vulnerability in the admin web interface that could allow an authenticated attacker to upload a custom template to perform code execution.
CISA KEV Advisory
Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure Code Execution Vulnerability
Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure contains an unspecified vulnerability in the admin web interface that could allow an authenticated attacker to upload a custom template to perform code execution.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure has an unspecified vulnerability in its admin web interface that could allow an authenticated attacker to upload a custom template and achieve code execution. The high EPSS score of 0.20545 indicates a significant likelihood of exploitation, making this a critical concern. Its inclusion in CISA's KEV further confirms active exploitation.
This vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, and its presence in CISA's KEV confirms its use by threat actors. While requiring authentication, the ability to upload templates for code execution suggests it could be remotely exploitable.
Organizations using Ivanti Pulse Connect Secure should apply all available security patches to address this vulnerability in the admin web interface. Restrict access to the admin interface and monitor for suspicious file uploads.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-8243 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-2020-8243 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.
Exploit & PoC Resources
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-8243 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