CVE-2025-36122 is a medium severity vulnerability affecting IBM Db2 versions 11.5.0 through 11.5.9 and 12.1.0 through 12.1.3 across Linux, UNIX, and Windows platforms. This vulnerability allows authenticated users to cause a denial of service (DoS) by executing a specially crafted SQL query, leading to improper allocation of system resources. With a CVSS score of 6.5, organizations may face significant risks to their database availability.
The nature of this vulnerability means that it can be exploited with low attack complexity and does not require user interaction. Consequently, organizations utilizing IBM Db2 should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to prevent potential service disruptions.
Given the increasing reliance on database systems, the risk to organizations includes potential downtime and loss of functionality. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate these risks and ensure continued service availability.
Currently, there are no known public exploits or proofs of concept available for this vulnerability, but the potential for exploitation remains significant. It is crucial for organizations to stay informed and implement appropriate remediation measures.
As of the last update, IBM's official advisory was published on April 30, 2026. Organizations should review their configurations and ensure that they are running the latest versions of Db2 to minimize exposure.
Vulnerability Details
IBM Db2 11.5.0 through 11.5.9, and 12.1.0 through 12.1.3 for Linux, UNIX and Windows (includes DB2 Connect Server) could allow an authenticated user to cause a denial of service using a specially crafted SQL query due to improper allocation of system resources.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.5, categorized as medium severity, indicating that it poses a moderate risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. The attack vector is network-based with low complexity and requires low privileges.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2025-36122 lies in the handling of SQL queries by the IBM Db2 system, where improper resource allocation can be exploited by authenticated users to trigger a denial of service condition.
The attack vector is classified as network-based, meaning that an attacker could exploit this vulnerability over the network with low complexity. Privileges required for exploitation are low, allowing any authenticated user to perform the attack.
User interaction is not required to exploit this vulnerability, which further increases its potential impact. The availability impact is high, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to significant downtime for the affected system.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2025-36122 is considerable. Organizations using IBM Db2 should assess their exposure and the potential for service disruptions. As this vulnerability allows authenticated users to cause a denial of service, the blast radius could encompass critical business operations that rely on database availability.
Given the CVSS score of 6.5, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. The urgency is underscored by the potential for significant impact on business continuity and operational efficiency.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of IBM Db2 range from 11.5.0 to 11.5.9 and from 12.1.0 to 12.1.3 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows platforms. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest versions to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are advised to apply the latest patches for IBM Db2 as soon as they are available. For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the database. Configuration hardening and regular monitoring of database logs can also help in mitigating potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
For comprehensive security assessments, organizations can utilize our penetration testing services to identify and remediate vulnerabilities effectively.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor for unusual database performance patterns and review logs for any unauthorized SQL query attempts. Indicators of exploitation may include spikes in resource utilization and application errors related to database interactions.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-36122 highlights the need for organizations to adopt proactive security measures. As vulnerabilities continue to evolve, maintaining a robust security posture is essential. Security teams should focus on integrating vulnerability management into their development lifecycles and ensuring regular security assessments.
Security professionals are encouraged to review our detailed insights on vulnerability management programs and consider our penetration testing methodology to enhance their security frameworks.
Additionally, understanding the trends in ransomware attacks can provide valuable context for developing a comprehensive defense strategy.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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