CVE-2025-36248 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in IBM Copy Services Manager version 6.3.13. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation (CWE-79), allowing an unauthenticated attacker to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the product's web user interface. This injected script can alter the intended functionality of the web application, potentially leading to the disclosure of user credentials within an active trusted session. The vulnerability does not require authentication (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as clicking a malicious link or visiting a crafted page. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.1 (medium severity), reflecting a network attack vector with low attack complexity and no privileges required, but with limited impact on confidentiality and integrity, and no impact on availability. The vulnerability affects only version 6.3.13 of the IBM Copy Services Manager, a tool used for managing data replication and copy services in enterprise storage environments. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a risk of credential theft and session manipulation, which could lead to further compromise of enterprise systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output encoding in web applications, especially those managing critical infrastructure components.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-36248 can be significant, particularly for enterprises relying on IBM Copy Services Manager for data replication and storage management. Successful exploitation could lead to credential disclosure, enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. This could result in data breaches, unauthorized data manipulation, or lateral movement within the network. The confidentiality and integrity of critical business data could be compromised, potentially affecting compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations. Although availability is not directly impacted, the indirect consequences of credential theft could disrupt business operations. The risk is heightened in sectors such as finance, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure, where IBM storage solutions are commonly deployed. The lack of authentication requirement lowers the barrier for attackers, increasing the likelihood of exploitation if user interaction occurs. European organizations must consider the potential reputational and regulatory consequences of such a breach.

Given the absence of an official patch at this time, European organizations should implement several specific mitigation strategies. First, deploy web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious input patterns targeting the IBM Copy Services Manager web interface. Second, enforce strict input validation and output encoding on any user-controllable inputs within the application environment, if customization is possible. Third, restrict access to the Copy Services Manager web UI to trusted networks and authenticated users via network segmentation and VPNs to reduce exposure. Fourth, implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts in the browser context. Fifth, conduct user awareness training to educate users about the risks of interacting with unsolicited links or suspicious web content related to the affected system. Finally, monitor IBM security advisories closely and apply patches immediately upon release. Regularly audit logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.