CVE-2026-76471: Critical RCE in Cisco NX-API

CVE-2026-76471 is a vulnerability in the NX-API feature of Cisco NX-OS Software caused by insufficient input validation. An unauthenticated remote attacker can send a crafted HTTP request to NX-API to execute arbitrary code with root privileges or trigger a denial of service condition on affected devices.

The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8 (critical). It was officially published on NVD on October 7, 2026. The official NVD description does not specify affected versions or patch availability. Isolated signals on social media (1 post in last 24 hours) indicate community security awareness. No public exploit has been declared at publication time.

Cisco administrators must immediately verify whether their NX-OS devices expose NX-API services. Monitor official Cisco advisories for affected versions and patch release dates. Restricting access to NX-API where feasible significantly reduces the exposure window and attack surface.

The absence of a declared public exploit reduces immediate risk, but the critical severity and remote nature of exploitation demand urgent defensive action. Security teams should prioritize this vulnerability in their patch management strategy. The lack of specific configuration details in NVD documentation makes it critical to contact Cisco for guidance on your infrastructure.