Description

IBM API Connect 12.1.0.0 through 12.1.1.2 could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code due to a path traversal vulnerability.

Executive Summary

Technical Details

Mitigations

References

Additional Metadata

{
  "score": "9.8",
  "pubDate": "2026-11-07T05:18:45.510Z",
  "pubdate": "2026-11-07T05:18:45.510Z",
  "executiveSummary": "IBM API Connect versions 12.1.0.0 through 12.1.1.2 are susceptible to a critical path traversal vulnerability that facilitates remote code execution.\nThis vulnerability stems from improper validation of user-supplied input, allowing an unauthenticated remote attacker to manipulate file paths and access arbitrary files within the filesystem.\nBy bypassing intended directory restrictions, the attacker can traverse outside the designated application sandbox to reach sensitive system resources or execute malicious code.\nThe risk implication is severe, as successful exploitation enables full control over the affected system or compromise of sensitive data stored on the host.\nThis vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it grants the attacker the ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the application process.\nNo specific user interaction is required for a remote attacker to initiate an exploit, assuming the vulnerable API endpoints are network-accessible.\nOrganizations using the specified versions of IBM API Connect are at significant risk and should prioritize immediate security review and remediation efforts to prevent unauthorized system access.",
  "technicalDetails": "The vulnerability in IBM API Connect 12.1.0.0 through 12.1.1.2 is classified as a path traversal flaw, which arises from the application's failure to adequately sanitize input parameters used in file system operations.\nThe root cause lies in the application's interaction with the underlying filesystem where input data—intended to designate a specific file—is processed without stripping or validating sequences such as '../' or absolute file paths.\nWhen an attacker provides a crafted request containing directory traversal sequences, the application's file handling mechanisms resolve these sequences against the base directory, allowing access to files outside of the intended scope.\nThe attack flow begins with the attacker identifying an endpoint that takes a user-controlled input parameter used for file retrieval or file operations. By injecting traversal sequences, the attacker effectively breaks out of the intended jail.\nOnce outside the intended directory, the attacker can target sensitive configuration files, system binary files, or other application artifacts.\nTo achieve arbitrary code execution, the attacker may leverage the traversal to overwrite critical files, such as application source code, dynamic link libraries, or configuration files that dictate application behavior.\nSpecifically, if the attacker can influence the writing of files—or the application process subsequently loads or executes files that have been placed in accessible directories through the traversal—code execution becomes feasible.\nThe vulnerability does not require authentication or elevated privileges, making it highly exploitable from a remote network position.\nSuccessful exploitation results in the execution of arbitrary commands with the privileges associated with the IBM API Connect service account.\nPost-exploitation activities include lateral movement within the network, exfiltration of sensitive API credentials, permanent persistence on the host, or disruption of service by overwriting application binaries, rendering the API gateway unusable."
}