IBM Db2 Mirror for i Faces Critical Privilege Escalation Flaw
A critical vulnerability in IBM Db2 Mirror for i allows authenticated attackers to bypass checks and execute code with elevated privileges.
Key points
- CVE-2026-96012 carries a CVSS score of 9.9, rated as critical severity.
- The flaw affects IBM Db2 Mirror for i versions 7.4, 7.5, and 7.6.
- Attackers can bypass authorization checks to execute malicious code.
IBM Db2 Mirror for i contains a critical vulnerability that allows authenticated attackers to escalate privileges. The flaw, identified as CVE-2026-96012, enables malicious actors to bypass security controls and execute arbitrary code on affected systems.
At a glance
- CVE
- CVE-2026-96012
- Product
- IBM Db2 Mirror for i
- CVSS
- 9.9 Critical
- Weakness
- CWE-264
- Exploited
- No known exploitation
The National Vulnerability Database records this issue with a CVSS score of 9.9. This rating places the flaw in the critical severity category. The vulnerability stems from weaknesses in how the software handles authorization and input validation. According to the NVD record, the issue is classified under CWE-264, which relates to permission issues.
Technical Details of the Vulnerability
An authenticated attacker can craft a malicious request to exploit this vulnerability. This request bypasses additional authorization checks that are meant to protect the system. The flaw also allows the attacker to skip input validation procedures. As a result, the attacker can execute malicious code on the target system.
The execution of this code grants the attacker elevated privileges. This means the attacker gains higher-level access than their original credentials allow. The NVD description states that an attacker could exploit this to obtain elevated privileges. This level of access can compromise the integrity of the entire system.
Affected Products and Versions
The vulnerability specifically impacts IBM Db2 Mirror for i. Three major versions of this product are affected by the flaw. These versions are 7.4, 7.5, and 7.6. Organizations using any of these releases are potentially exposed to this risk.
The NVD record lists these specific version numbers as affected. No other versions are mentioned in the source material. Users of these specific releases should review their exposure. The flaw exists within the core functionality of these software versions.
What should you do?
No fix has been confirmed yet for this vulnerability. The source material does not mention a patch or update. Organizations should monitor vendor announcements for official guidance. Until a fix is available, limiting access to the affected systems is advisable.
What to do and how to stay safe: IBM
- Verify if your environment runs IBM Db2 Mirror for i versions 7.4, 7.5, or 7.6.
- Restrict access to the affected systems to reduce the risk of exploitation.
- Monitor IBM security advisories for the release of a patch or update.
- Review logs for signs of unauthorized privilege escalation attempts.
Step-by-step guide: Risk Based Vulnerability Management: Prioritize Fixes by Actual Threat
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CVSS score for CVE-2026-96012?
The CVSS score is 9.9, which is rated as critical severity.
Which versions of IBM Db2 Mirror for i are affected?
Versions 7.4, 7.5, and 7.6 are affected by this vulnerability.
Can an unauthenticated attacker exploit this flaw?
No, the source material states that an authenticated attacker is required to exploit this vulnerability.
