CVE-2025-36033 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79 affecting IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management - Global Configuration Management (GCM) versions 7.0.3 through 7.0.3 Interim Fix 017 and 7.1.0 through 7.1.0 Interim Fix 004. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of user-supplied input during web page generation, allowing an authenticated user to embed arbitrary JavaScript code into the web UI. This injected script can execute within the context of the victim's browser session, potentially altering the intended functionality of the application. The primary risk is the disclosure of sensitive information such as user credentials or session tokens, which can be captured by the attacker. The CVSS v3.1 score is 5.4 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, but does require privileges (authenticated user) and user interaction. The scope is changed (S:C), indicating that the vulnerability can affect resources beyond the initially vulnerable component. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a risk in environments where multiple users have authenticated access to the GCM web interface. The vulnerability does not affect availability but impacts confidentiality and integrity. IBM has not yet published patches or fixes for this vulnerability as per the provided data, so mitigation relies on compensating controls until patches are available.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-36033 can be significant, especially those in sectors relying heavily on IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management for software development and configuration management. Successful exploitation could lead to credential theft, enabling attackers to escalate privileges or move laterally within the network. This could compromise sensitive project data, intellectual property, and disrupt development workflows. The vulnerability's requirement for authenticated access and user interaction limits mass exploitation but increases risk in insider threat scenarios or targeted attacks. Confidentiality breaches could lead to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed. Integrity impacts could undermine trust in software configuration states, potentially affecting product quality and security. Although availability is not directly impacted, the indirect consequences of compromised credentials could lead to broader system disruptions.

Organizations should immediately review user access controls to ensure that only trusted personnel have authenticated access to IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management - Global Configuration Management. Implement strict input validation and output encoding on all user-supplied data within the application, if customization is possible. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts in the web UI. Monitor user sessions for anomalous behavior indicative of XSS exploitation attempts. Until IBM releases official patches, consider isolating the affected systems from less trusted networks and enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Conduct security awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering that could facilitate user interaction required for exploitation. Regularly audit and update session management configurations to prevent session hijacking. Stay alert for IBM advisories and apply patches promptly once available.