CVE-2026-102031: CWE-78 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection') in Juniper Networks Junos OS Evolved
Description
CVE-2026-102031 is a critical OS Command Injection vulnerability in the TACACS component of Juniper Networks Junos OS Evolved. It allows a low-privileged TACACS+-authenticated user to execute commands with root privileges when periodic TACACS+ authorization-refresh is enabled. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Junos OS Evolved prior to specific patch releases. The CVSS score is 9.8, indicating a high severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed.
CVSS v3.1
Score 9.8critical
Affected software
Juniper Networks
Junos OS Evolved
Weaknesses
AI-Powered Analysis
Machine-generated threat intelligence
Technical Analysis
This vulnerability (CVE-2026-102031) involves improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command (CWE-78) within the TACACS feature of Juniper Networks Junos OS Evolved. A low-privileged user authenticated via TACACS+ can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges if periodic TACACS+ authorization-refresh is enabled. The flaw affects multiple versions of Junos OS Evolved, spanning from early versions up to various patch releases, as detailed by the affected version ranges. The vulnerability is rated critical with a CVSS 3.1 score of 9.8, reflecting its potential for complete system compromise without requiring user interaction or prior privileges.
Potential Impact
Successful exploitation allows an attacker with low TACACS+ authentication privileges to execute arbitrary commands with root-level privileges on the affected Junos OS Evolved device. This can lead to full system compromise, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The vulnerability is exploitable remotely over the network without user interaction and with low attack complexity.
Mitigation Recommendations
Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until an official fix is available, it is recommended to disable periodic TACACS+ authorization-refresh if feasible, or restrict TACACS+ access to trusted users only. Monitor Juniper Networks advisories closely for patch releases addressing this vulnerability.
Technical Details
- Data Version
- 5.2
- Assigner Short Name
- juniper
- Date Reserved
- 2026-09-28T17:33:49.411Z
- Cvss Version
- 3.1
- State
- PUBLISHED
Threat ID: 6acfb6672cdf04f6569794bc
Added to database: 10/14/2026, 17:05:43 UTC
Last enriched: 10/14/2026, 18:48:15 UTC
Last updated: 10/14/2026, 22:08:35 UTC
Views: 5
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