IBM API Connect Authentication Bypass Vulnerability
Published: December 31, 2025
Severity Level: CRITICAL (9.8/10)
CVE ID: CVE-2025-13915
Executive Summary
IBM has issued an urgent security warning regarding a critical authentication bypass vulnerability in IBM API Connect.
This flaw allows attackers to gain unauthorized remote access to enterprise applications without credentials.
The vulnerability affects hundreds of organizations across:
- Banking
- Healthcare
- Retail
- Telecommunications
Immediate patching is required.
What is IBM API Connect?
IBM API Connect is a widely deployed enterprise API gateway used to:
- Develop APIs
- Test APIs
- Manage APIs
- Control access to internal services
It supports:
- On-premises deployments
- Cloud deployments
- Hybrid environments
This makes it a core component of modern enterprise architectures.
Common Users of IBM API Connect
- Banking and financial services institutions
- Healthcare providers and medical organizations
- Retail and e-commerce companies
- Telecommunications providers
- Government and public sector agencies
The Vulnerability: CVE-2025-13915
Technical Details
- Vulnerability Type: Authentication Bypass (CWE-305)
- CVSS Score: 9.8 / 10 (CRITICAL)
- Attack Vector: Network-based (remote)
- Exploit Complexity: Low
- Authentication Required: None
- User Interaction: Not required
Affected Versions
The following IBM API Connect versions are vulnerable:
- 10.0.11.0
- 10.0.8.0 through 10.0.8.5
Attack Scenario
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to bypass authentication controls, gaining unauthorized access to exposed applications without:
- Valid user credentials
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Any form of prior access
This enables full compromise of API-exposed services.
Vendor Statement
According to IBM’s official security advisory:
"IBM API Connect could allow a remote attacker to bypass authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to the application. IBM strongly recommends addressing the vulnerability now by upgrading."
Recommended Action
"Customers unable to install the interim fix should disable self-service sign-up on their Developer Portal if enabled, which will help minimize their exposure to this vulnerability."
Mitigation Steps
- Patch immediately using IBM’s official security updates
- Restrict external access until patches are applied
- Monitor logs for suspicious unauthenticated activity
- Conduct a post-patch security review