CVE-2025-27898 identifies a security vulnerability in IBM DB2 Recovery Expert for LUW version 5.5 Interim Fix 002, specifically related to insufficient session expiration (CWE-613). The product fails to invalidate user sessions after a timeout period, which means that sessions remain active beyond their intended lifespan. This flaw can be exploited by an authenticated user who gains access to a session token or session context of another user, allowing them to impersonate that user without re-authentication. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.3, indicating medium severity, with an attack vector of network (remote), low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction. The impact affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a limited extent, as unauthorized session reuse can lead to unauthorized actions or data exposure within the scope of the impersonated user’s privileges. While no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability poses a risk especially in environments where session tokens are not adequately protected or monitored. IBM DB2 Recovery Expert for LUW is used for database recovery and management, making session security critical to prevent unauthorized database operations or data leakage. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust session management controls, including timely session invalidation and token revocation after inactivity or timeout.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could result in unauthorized access to sensitive database recovery functions, potentially leading to data exposure, unauthorized changes, or disruption of recovery operations. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that rely on IBM DB2 Recovery Expert for LUW may face increased risks of insider threats or lateral movement by attackers who exploit session reuse. The medium severity rating reflects that while the vulnerability does not allow unauthenticated remote code execution, the ability to impersonate users with existing privileges can facilitate privilege escalation or data breaches. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is particularly concerning for regulated industries subject to strict data protection laws like GDPR. Additionally, availability could be affected if unauthorized users disrupt recovery processes. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially in targeted attacks or advanced persistent threat scenarios.

Organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Monitor IBM’s security advisories closely and apply any forthcoming patches or interim fixes addressing this vulnerability promptly. 2) Enforce strict session timeout policies and ensure session tokens are invalidated immediately upon timeout or logout. 3) Implement additional session management controls such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of session hijacking. 4) Restrict access to DB2 Recovery Expert interfaces to trusted networks and users, leveraging network segmentation and access control lists. 5) Conduct regular audits of session logs to detect anomalous session reuse or prolonged sessions beyond expected durations. 6) Educate administrators and users on secure session handling practices and the risks of session reuse. 7) Consider deploying Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) that can detect unusual session activity patterns. 8) Review and harden the overall authentication and authorization mechanisms within the IBM DB2 environment to minimize privilege abuse.