CVE-2025-14148 identifies a security vulnerability in IBM UrbanCode Deploy (UCD) - IBM DevOps Deploy versions 8.1 through 8.1.2.3, specifically related to insufficient protection of stored credentials, classified under CWE-522. The flaw allows an authenticated user who has privileges to configure Large Language Model (LLM) integrations within the product to retrieve a previously saved LLM API token. This token is sensitive as it grants access to LLM services integrated into the DevOps pipeline, potentially enabling unauthorized actions or data exfiltration if misused. The vulnerability arises from inadequate encryption or access controls around the stored token, allowing privileged users to extract it in plaintext or a reversible format. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5 (medium severity), with an attack vector of network (remote), low attack complexity, requiring privileges (PR:L), no user interaction, and impacting confidentiality only (no integrity or availability impact). The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to have configuration privileges, limiting the attack surface to insiders or compromised accounts with elevated rights. No public exploits or active exploitation have been reported as of the publication date. The vulnerability highlights the risk of insufficient credential management in complex DevOps tools that integrate external services such as LLM APIs. Without proper protection, sensitive tokens can be exposed to unauthorized users, potentially leading to lateral movement or data leakage within an organization’s infrastructure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of sensitive API tokens used in DevOps automation workflows. Exposure of LLM API tokens could allow attackers to misuse LLM services, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, injection of malicious commands, or manipulation of automated deployment processes. Organizations relying on IBM UCD for critical software delivery pipelines may face increased insider threat risks or compromise from attackers who gain configuration privileges. The impact is particularly relevant for sectors with stringent data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government, where unauthorized access to integrated AI services could lead to compliance violations or data breaches. While the vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability, the indirect consequences of token misuse could disrupt operations or expose sensitive intellectual property. Given the widespread use of IBM DevOps Deploy in large enterprises across Europe, the vulnerability could affect a broad range of organizations, especially those integrating LLM capabilities into their CI/CD pipelines.

To mitigate CVE-2025-14148, organizations should first apply any patches or updates provided by IBM once available. In the absence of immediate patches, restrict LLM integration configuration privileges strictly to trusted administrators and implement role-based access controls to minimize the number of users with such privileges. Conduct regular audits of configuration changes and access logs to detect unauthorized attempts to retrieve API tokens. Consider encrypting stored tokens using strong cryptographic methods beyond the default product storage mechanisms, if feasible. Implement token rotation policies to limit the lifespan of exposed tokens and reduce potential misuse. Additionally, monitor LLM API usage for anomalous activity that could indicate token compromise. Educate DevOps teams on the risks of credential exposure and enforce the principle of least privilege in all automation tools. Finally, segregate environments and sensitive integrations to contain potential breaches.