Severity
High
Analysis Summary
A critical security vulnerability has been identified in the IBM API Connect platform that allows remote attackers to completely bypass authentication controls and gain unauthorized access. Discovered during internal testing, the flaw enables access to the application without valid credentials, posing a serious threat to organizations that rely on IBM API Connect for API management and integration. Due to its remote exploitability and lack of authentication requirements, the issue represents a high-risk exposure in enterprise environments.
The vulnerability is tracked as CVE-2025-13915 and carries a critical CVSS score of high, reflecting its severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It is categorized under CWE-305 (Authentication Bypass by Primary Weakness), meaning attackers can circumvent the login mechanism entirely. The attack vector is network-based and requires no privileges or user interaction, significantly increasing the likelihood of automated and large-scale exploitation.
Affected versions include IBM API Connect V10.0.8 (versions 10.0.8.0 through 10.0.8.5) and IBM API Connect V10.0.11 (version 10.0.11.0). IBM has released remediation updates in the form of iFixes, with patches available for V10.0.8.1 through 10.0.8.5 and an iFix for V10.0.11. Organizations using these versions are strongly advised to verify their deployments and apply the appropriate fixes without delay.
For environments where immediate patching is not feasible, IBM has recommended a temporary mitigation by disabling self-service sign-up on the Developer Portal, if enabled. While this workaround does not resolve the underlying vulnerability, it reduces the exposed attack surface and limits potential abuse until the official fixes can be deployed. Prompt remediation remains critical to prevent unauthorized access and potential compromise of API infrastructure.
Impact
- Gain Access
- Security Bypass
Indicators of Compromise
CVE
- CVE-2025-13915
Affected Vendors
Remediation
- Immediately apply IBM-issued patches/iFixes for all affected versions, specifically: upgrade IBM API Connect V10.0.8 to a patched release between 10.0.8.1 and 10.0.8.5, and apply the iFix for IBM API Connect V10.0.11
- Identify affected deployments by reviewing all IBM API Connect instances across production, staging, and development environments.
- Disable self-service sign-up on the Developer Portal if it is currently enabled, as a temporary mitigation until patching is completed.
- Restrict network access to the IBM API Connect management and developer interfaces using firewall rules, IP allowlists, or VPN access where possible.
- Monitor logs and audit trails for suspicious authentication activity or unauthorized access attempts that may indicate exploitation.
- Enable and enforce strong access controls and ensure administrative interfaces are not publicly exposed to the internet.
- Conduct a post-patch security review to verify that authentication mechanisms are functioning correctly after remediation.
- Stay informed of IBM security advisories and subscribe to vendor alerts to receive timely updates on future vulnerabilities and fixes.


