CVE-2025-14808 identifies a security weakness in IBM InfoSphere Information Server versions 11.7.0.0 through 11.7.1.6 related to the use of HTTP GET requests to transmit sensitive query strings. The core issue is that sensitive information, such as authentication tokens or confidential parameters, is included in the URL query string of GET requests. Since URLs are often logged by servers, proxies, and browsers, and are more susceptible to interception during transmission, this practice exposes sensitive data to potential attackers. Specifically, an attacker positioned to perform man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks on the network can capture these GET requests and extract sensitive information from the query strings. The vulnerability does not affect the integrity or availability of the system but compromises confidentiality to a limited extent. The attack complexity is high because the attacker must be able to intercept network traffic, and the attacker requires low privileges and no user interaction. The CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:N/A:N) reflects these factors, resulting in a low overall score of 3.1. No public exploits have been reported, and IBM has not yet provided patches, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed proactively.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the potential unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information transmitted via HTTP GET query strings. If exploited, attackers could obtain confidential data such as session tokens, credentials, or other sensitive parameters, which could facilitate further attacks or unauthorized access. However, the impact is limited by the requirement for the attacker to intercept network traffic, which is more feasible in unencrypted or poorly secured network environments. The vulnerability does not allow modification or disruption of data or services, so integrity and availability remain unaffected. Organizations using IBM InfoSphere Information Server in environments where network traffic is not fully encrypted or where MitM attacks are plausible face increased risk. This could be particularly concerning in industries handling sensitive data such as finance, healthcare, or government sectors. The low CVSS score indicates a relatively low risk compared to more severe vulnerabilities, but the exposure of sensitive information can still have compliance and reputational consequences.

To mitigate CVE-2025-14808, organizations should immediately avoid transmitting sensitive information in HTTP GET query strings within IBM InfoSphere Information Server workflows. Instead, sensitive data should be sent using HTTP POST requests or other secure methods that do not expose data in URLs. Enforce the use of HTTPS with strong TLS configurations to protect data in transit and prevent interception by MitM attackers. Network segmentation and monitoring can help detect and prevent unauthorized network access. Organizations should monitor IBM’s security advisories for patches or configuration updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. Additionally, review and audit application logs and proxy configurations to ensure sensitive data is not inadvertently logged or exposed. Educate developers and administrators on secure coding and data handling practices to prevent similar issues. Finally, consider deploying network security tools such as intrusion detection systems (IDS) to identify suspicious traffic patterns indicative of MitM attacks.