CVE-2025-13108 is a vulnerability identified in IBM DB2 Merge Backup version 12.1.0.0 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows platforms. The issue stems from the backup utility's failure to properly clear or sanitize memory buffers after use, which can result in residual sensitive data remaining accessible in memory. An attacker with low-level privileges on the affected system could exploit this flaw to read sensitive information that should have been cleared, potentially exposing confidential data such as credentials, configuration details, or other protected information stored temporarily during backup operations. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require local access with low privileges, meaning remote exploitation is unlikely without prior system compromise. The flaw does not affect the integrity or availability of the system or data, focusing solely on confidentiality exposure. IBM has not yet published patches or known exploits in the wild, but the vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5, indicating a medium severity level. This score reflects the local attack vector, low complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and a high impact on confidentiality. The vulnerability affects only version 12.1.0.0 of the DB2 Merge Backup product, so organizations running other versions or different backup solutions are not impacted. The issue was reserved in November 2025 and published in February 2026, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-13108 is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored in memory during backup operations. This could include database credentials, encryption keys, or other confidential data, which if accessed by malicious insiders or attackers with local access, could lead to further compromise or data breaches. The vulnerability does not affect data integrity or system availability, so operational disruption is unlikely. However, the confidentiality breach risk is significant for sectors handling sensitive or regulated data, such as financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies. Since exploitation requires local access with low privileges, the threat is mainly from insider threats, compromised accounts, or attackers who have already gained limited foothold on systems. European organizations with IBM DB2 12.1.0.0 deployments in critical infrastructure or enterprise environments could face compliance and reputational risks if sensitive data is exposed. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the need for prompt mitigation.

1. Apply patches or updates from IBM as soon as they become available to address the memory clearing issue in DB2 Merge Backup 12.1.0.0. 2. Restrict local access to systems running the affected DB2 version to trusted administrators and users only, minimizing the risk of unauthorized local exploitation. 3. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on backup servers and related infrastructure to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts. 4. Use host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) to monitor for suspicious local activities that could indicate attempts to exploit memory exposure. 5. Consider upgrading to later versions of IBM DB2 Merge Backup if they are confirmed not vulnerable. 6. Conduct regular security audits and reviews of user privileges and system configurations to reduce insider threat risks. 7. Encrypt sensitive data in memory and backups where possible to add an additional layer of protection. 8. Educate system administrators and security teams about the vulnerability and the importance of limiting local access and monitoring.