CVE-2025-14689 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-1284 (Improper Validation of Specified Quantity in Input) affecting IBM Db2 for Linux, UNIX, and Windows versions 12.1.0 through 12.1.3, including Db2 Connect Server. The flaw arises from improper neutralization of special elements in the data query logic when federated objects are involved. Federated objects allow Db2 to query data from multiple heterogeneous data sources as if they were a single database. Due to insufficient input validation in this context, an authenticated user can craft specially formed queries that exploit this weakness to cause a denial of service condition, potentially crashing the database server or rendering it unresponsive. The vulnerability does not allow unauthorized data access or modification, but it impacts availability. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.5 (medium), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges (authenticated user), no user interaction, unchanged scope, no confidentiality or integrity impact, and high impact on availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, and no patches were linked at the time of reporting, indicating the need for vigilance and prompt patching once available. The vulnerability is particularly relevant in environments where federated queries are common and where multiple users have authenticated access to the database.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to the availability of critical database services running IBM Db2 12.1.x. Disruption of database availability can impact business continuity, especially in sectors such as finance, manufacturing, telecommunications, and government services that rely heavily on Db2 for transaction processing and data analytics. Denial of service could lead to operational downtime, loss of productivity, and potential financial losses. Since exploitation requires authenticated access, insider threats or compromised credentials increase risk. The lack of confidentiality or integrity impact reduces the risk of data breaches but does not diminish the operational impact. Organizations with federated database architectures are more exposed. The absence of known exploits provides a window for proactive mitigation, but also means attackers could develop exploits in the future. Given the widespread use of IBM Db2 in Europe, the threat is significant for enterprises with critical database dependencies.

1. Monitor IBM’s official security advisories and apply patches promptly once released for versions 12.1.0 through 12.1.3. 2. Restrict database user privileges to the minimum necessary, especially limiting access to federated query capabilities to trusted users only. 3. Implement strong authentication mechanisms and regularly audit user accounts to prevent unauthorized or excessive access. 4. Monitor database query logs for unusual or malformed federated queries that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Employ network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to the Db2 server to trusted hosts and users. 6. Consider disabling federated querying if not required or isolating federated data sources to reduce attack surface. 7. Prepare incident response plans to quickly address potential denial of service events impacting database availability. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on database input validation and federated query handling.