Cisco Webex Vulnerability Allows Remote Code Execution via Weaponized Meeting Links
In today’s digital age, remote communication and online meetings have become an essential part of everyday life. Widely-used platforms like Cisco Webex serve as vital tools for millions of users worldwide. However, a recently discovered critical vulnerability has raised serious concerns for both individual and enterprise users of the platform.
Nature of the Vulnerability and Severity
On April 16, 2025, Cisco published an official security advisory disclosing a vulnerability tracked as CVE-2025-20236, which affects desktop versions of the Webex application. This flaw allows attackers to execute arbitrary remote code on a victim’s device if the victim clicks on a specially crafted malicious Webex meeting link.
The vulnerability has been rated 8.8 out of 10 on the CVSS v3.1 scale, indicating a high level of risk. The issue stems from insufficient input validation in the Webex application’s handling of specific meeting invitation URLs.
How the Exploit Works
The attacker crafts a malicious Webex meeting URL that includes embedded code, and sends it to the target. If the user clicks the link, a vulnerable version of the Webex app processes it without adequate verification, automatically downloading the malicious files. These files can then be executed with the privileges of the current user, without any additional permissions.
Affected Versions
According to Cisco’s official advisory, the following desktop versions of Webex are affected:
- Versions from 44.6.0.29928 up to (but not including) 44.6.2.30589
- All releases of version 44.7, including 44.7.0.30285
It’s important to note that versions 44.5 and earlier, as well as 44.8 and later, are not affected by this vulnerability.
Cisco’s Response and Patching Instructions
Cisco identified the vulnerability during internal security testing and quickly released the necessary patches. Users running version 44.6 are strongly advised to upgrade to 44.6.2.30589 or newer.
For users on version 44.7, no direct patch is available, so they are urged to switch to a secure fixed version instead. Cisco has also stated that there are no workarounds, making patching the only effective mitigation.
Conclusion: Stay Alert, Stay Updated
Although Cisco has confirmed that there are no public reports of exploitation at this time, security experts warn that such vulnerabilities can be rapidly weaponized once they become known. Organizations relying on Webex for daily operations should prioritize patching immediately.
As technology evolves, so do cyber threats. Attacks delivered via seemingly harmless meeting links serve as a reminder of the importance of user vigilance and the need for rapid response from service providers.
