Is CVE-2022-20697 actively exploited?

No active exploitation of CVE-2022-20697 has been confirmed so far. Continue monitoring, as exploit status can change.

Can CVE-2022-20697 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2022-20697 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2022-20697?

CVE-2022-20697 has a CVSS score of 8.6 (HIGH).

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HIGH

CVE-2022-20697

CWE-691Published: April 15, 2022· Updated: Jun 17, 2026

8.6

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

A vulnerability in the web services interface of Cisco IOS Software and Cisco IOS XE Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition. This vulnerability is due to improper resource management in the HTTP server code. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a large number of HTTP requests to an affected device. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to cause the device to reload, resulting in a DoS condition.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2022-20697 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.

A successful exploit results in availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 8.6.

The vulnerability has a "Changed" scope, meaning successful exploitation can impact components beyond the vulnerable component itself — such as the host operating system or adjacent services.