CVE-2025-33097 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in IBM QRadar SIEM versions 7.5 through 7.5.0 UP12 IF02. This vulnerability arises from improper input sanitization in the web user interface, allowing authenticated users to inject arbitrary JavaScript code that is persistently stored and executed within the context of the application. The flaw is classified under CWE-79, which pertains to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, leading to XSS attacks. Exploitation requires an attacker to have authenticated access to the QRadar SIEM web interface, after which they can embed malicious scripts that alter the intended functionality of the UI. The impact includes potential disclosure of credentials and session hijacking within the trusted session, as the malicious script executes with the privileges of the authenticated user. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, no user interaction, and a scope change with partial confidentiality and integrity impact but no availability impact. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. This vulnerability poses a significant risk in environments where multiple users share access to the QRadar SIEM console, especially if privilege separation is insufficient or if users have elevated rights.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, particularly for those relying on IBM QRadar SIEM for security monitoring and incident response. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive credentials or session tokens, enabling attackers to escalate privileges or move laterally within the network. This undermines the integrity and confidentiality of security event data and may allow attackers to manipulate or suppress alerts, impairing the organization's ability to detect and respond to threats. Given the critical role of SIEM systems in cybersecurity operations, any compromise can have cascading effects on overall security posture. Furthermore, GDPR and other European data protection regulations impose strict requirements on safeguarding personal and sensitive data; a breach resulting from this vulnerability could lead to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The requirement for authenticated access somewhat limits the attack surface, but insider threats or compromised user accounts could be leveraged to exploit this flaw.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Immediately restrict access to the QRadar SIEM web interface to only trusted and necessary personnel, enforcing strict role-based access controls to minimize the number of users with write or administrative privileges. 2) Monitor and audit user activities within the SIEM console to detect anomalous behavior indicative of attempted script injection or misuse. 3) Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious payloads targeting the SIEM interface. 4) Until an official patch is released, consider deploying input validation proxies or sanitization layers that can intercept and neutralize malicious scripts. 5) Educate users with access about the risks of XSS and the importance of secure credential handling. 6) Regularly review and update authentication mechanisms, including enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all SIEM users to reduce the risk of compromised credentials being used for exploitation. 7) Stay alert for IBM’s official security advisories and apply patches promptly once available. 8) Consider network segmentation to isolate the SIEM system from less trusted network zones, limiting potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs.