CVE-2023-30997 is a vulnerability identified in IBM Security Access Manager Docker versions 10.0.0.0 through 10.0.7.1. It is classified under CWE-250, which involves execution with unnecessary privileges. The vulnerability arises from improper access controls within the containerized deployment of IBM Security Access Manager, allowing a local user with limited privileges to escalate their rights to root level. This escalation occurs without requiring user interaction, making it easier for an attacker with local access to fully compromise the system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high-severity issue with the attack vector being local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, all rated high, meaning an attacker can access sensitive data, alter system configurations, or disrupt services. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the critical nature of the IBM Security Access Manager in managing authentication and access control. The vulnerability affects containerized environments, which are increasingly common in enterprise deployments, thus broadening the potential attack surface. The lack of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate interim mitigations to prevent exploitation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences including unauthorized root access on systems running IBM Security Access Manager Docker. This can result in full compromise of authentication services, exposing sensitive user credentials and access policies. The breach of such critical security infrastructure could cascade into broader network compromises, data breaches, and operational disruptions. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, which rely heavily on robust access management, are particularly at risk. The local attack vector means that insider threats or attackers who gain initial footholds via other means could escalate privileges rapidly. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, organizations could face regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed or systems are disrupted. The containerized nature of the product means that compromised hosts could also affect other containerized workloads, amplifying the impact.

Organizations should immediately audit and restrict local access to hosts running IBM Security Access Manager Docker to trusted personnel only. Employ strict container security best practices such as running containers with the least privilege, disabling unnecessary capabilities, and using container runtime security tools to monitor for suspicious privilege escalations. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit lateral movement from compromised hosts. Until official patches are released by IBM, consider deploying compensating controls like host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) and enhanced logging to detect anomalous activities. Regularly update and patch container platforms and underlying operating systems to reduce the attack surface. Engage with IBM support for early access to patches or workarounds and monitor IBM security advisories closely. Conduct thorough incident response planning and readiness exercises focused on privilege escalation scenarios within container environments.