IBM has issued a security alert for a critical authentication bypass vulnerability impacting IBM API Connect, warning that the flaw could let attackers gain access without valid credentials.
API Connect is a foundational platform used by enterprises to build, secure, and manage APIs, meaning the issue strikes at the core of systems that connect key business services, customer platforms, and backend infrastructure. APIs sit at the center of modern digital architecture, linking applications, cloud services, and data flows across industries such as banking, telecommunications, healthcare, and enterprise IT. When an API management platform experiences a serious security flaw, it raises concerns not just about technical exposure but also operational continuity and trust.
The vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2025-13915, carries a CVSS severity score of 9.8 out of 10, placing it firmly in the critical category. IBM says the flaw was discovered during internal testing and could allow a remote attacker to bypass authentication entirely and gain unauthorized access. The attack requires no prior privileges, can be executed remotely, and does not rely on user interaction — significantly lowering the barrier to exploitation.
If abused, the flaw could expose sensitive data, enable configuration tampering, or allow attackers to disrupt API-driven services. IBM categorizes the issue under CWE-305, which covers authentication bypass weaknesses.
The vulnerability impacts specific IBM API Connect 10 release verisons 10.0.8.0 through 10.0.8.5, and IBM API Connect 10.0.11.0.
IBM has released interim fixes (iFixes) and updated builds to remediate the vulnerability and is urging customers to apply patches as soon as possible rather than waiting for scheduled maintenance cycles.
Organizations running these versions are strongly advised to update. If unable to update immediately, IBM recommends disabling self-service sign-up on the Developer Portal as a temporary mitigation, though it stresses this is not a complete solution.
For detailed remediation guidance and download links for fixed builds, visit the official security advisory or support site.
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