CVE-2025-36183 Overview
CVE-2025-36183 is an unrestricted file upload vulnerability (CWE-434) affecting IBM watsonx.data versions 2.2 through 2.2.1 IBM Lakehouse. The vulnerability allows a privileged user to upload malicious files that could be executed on the server, potentially modifying limited files or data. This type of vulnerability can lead to server-side code execution and data manipulation when exploited by authenticated attackers with elevated privileges.
Critical Impact
Privileged users can upload and execute malicious files on IBM watsonx.data servers, potentially leading to unauthorized file modification and limited data compromise.
Affected Products
- IBM watsonx.data 2.2
- IBM watsonx.data 2.2.1
- IBM Lakehouse (associated with watsonx.data 2.2.x)
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-02-17 - CVE CVE-2025-36183 published to NVD
- 2026-02-18 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-36183
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability stems from improper validation of file uploads within IBM watsonx.data's Lakehouse component. The platform fails to adequately restrict the types of files that privileged users can upload, creating an avenue for malicious file execution on the server. The attack requires network access and high-level privileges within the application, which limits the potential attacker pool to authenticated administrators or users with elevated permissions.
The impact is characterized by the potential for limited integrity and availability compromise. An attacker could modify restricted files or data on the server, though the scope is contained and does not extend beyond the vulnerable component. No confidentiality impact has been identified, meaning sensitive data exposure is not a direct consequence of exploitation.
Root Cause
The root cause is CWE-434: Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type. The IBM watsonx.data platform does not implement sufficient file type validation or content inspection when processing file uploads from privileged users. This allows potentially executable or malicious files to be uploaded and subsequently executed or processed by the server.
Attack Vector
The attack is network-based and requires the attacker to possess high-level privileges within the IBM watsonx.data environment. The exploitation process involves:
- Authentication: The attacker must first authenticate to IBM watsonx.data with a privileged account
- File Upload: Using the upload functionality, the attacker submits a malicious file (such as a web shell, script, or executable)
- Execution: The malicious file is processed or executed by the server, allowing the attacker to modify limited files or data
Since no verified code examples are available for this vulnerability, organizations should refer to the IBM Support Page for detailed technical information about the vulnerability mechanism and specific attack patterns. The vulnerability leverages standard file upload interfaces but bypasses expected file type restrictions.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-36183
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected file uploads in IBM watsonx.data storage directories, particularly executable files or scripts
- Server log entries showing file upload activities from privileged accounts with unusual file extensions
- Modified system files or data that cannot be attributed to normal operational activities
- Anomalous process execution originating from upload directories
Detection Strategies
- Implement file integrity monitoring (FIM) on IBM watsonx.data servers to detect unauthorized file modifications
- Enable comprehensive audit logging for all file upload operations within the watsonx.data platform
- Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify suspicious file executions
- Monitor for unusual file types being uploaded through the application interfaces
Monitoring Recommendations
- Configure SIEM alerts for file upload events involving executable or script file extensions
- Establish baseline behavior for privileged user activities and alert on deviations
- Review audit logs regularly for patterns indicating attempted exploitation of upload functionality
- Implement real-time monitoring of server directories commonly targeted by file upload attacks
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-36183
Immediate Actions Required
- Review and audit all privileged user accounts for unauthorized access or suspicious activity
- Implement additional file type restrictions at the network or application layer as a temporary control
- Scan IBM watsonx.data servers for any malicious files that may have been uploaded
- Restrict upload functionality to essential operations only until patches are applied
Patch Information
IBM has released information regarding this vulnerability. Organizations should consult the IBM Support Page for official patch availability and upgrade guidance for IBM watsonx.data versions 2.2 through 2.2.1. It is recommended to upgrade to the latest patched version as soon as it becomes available.
Workarounds
- Implement strict file upload validation at the web application firewall (WAF) level to block dangerous file types
- Restrict privileged account access to the minimum number of trusted personnel required
- Configure server-side execution restrictions to prevent uploaded files from being executed
- Deploy network segmentation to limit the blast radius if exploitation occurs
# Example: Restrict file execution permissions on upload directories
# Adjust paths according to your IBM watsonx.data installation
chmod -R 644 /path/to/watsonx/data/uploads/
chown -R root:root /path/to/watsonx/data/uploads/
# Configure noexec mount option for upload directories
# Add to /etc/fstab:
# /dev/sda1 /path/to/watsonx/data/uploads ext4 defaults,noexec,nosuid 0 2
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
