CVE-2025-13148

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CVE-2025-13148 vulnerability security high severity IBM Aspera Orchestrator password change security advisory CVE database

Summary

CVE-2025-13148 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting IBM Aspera Orchestrator versions 4.0.0 through 4.1.0. This vulnerability allows an authenticated user to change the password of another user without needing to know the original password, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of user accounts.

Technical Details

The vulnerability stems from insufficient access control checks within the password reset functionality of IBM Aspera Orchestrator. An authenticated user can manipulate the request parameters to target a different user account, effectively bypassing the intended security measures that require knowledge of the existing password. This allows the attacker to set a new password for the targeted account, gaining unauthorized access.

Specifically, the application fails to properly validate the user context during the password change process. By modifying the user identifier in the password reset request, an attacker can trick the system into resetting the password for an unintended user. The lack of proper authorization checks on this critical function is the root cause of the vulnerability.

Affected Products and Versions

  • IBM Aspera Orchestrator 4.0.0
  • IBM Aspera Orchestrator 4.0.1
  • IBM Aspera Orchestrator 4.0.2
  • IBM Aspera Orchestrator 4.1.0

Impact Assessment

Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-13148 can have significant consequences for organizations using IBM Aspera Orchestrator. An attacker can gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, disrupt critical business processes, and potentially compromise the entire system.

  • Account Takeover: Attackers can take control of user accounts, including those with administrative privileges.
  • Data Breach: Compromised accounts can be used to access and exfiltrate sensitive data stored within the system.
  • Service Disruption: Attackers can disrupt the normal operation of the system by modifying configurations or deleting critical data.
  • Reputational Damage: A successful attack can damage the organization's reputation and erode customer trust.

Remediation

Immediate Actions

  • Apply the Patch: Upgrade IBM Aspera Orchestrator to a version that includes the fix for CVE-2025-13148. Refer to the IBM security advisory for specific patch information.
  • Monitor System Logs: Closely monitor system logs for any suspicious activity, such as unusual password reset attempts or unauthorized access to user accounts.
  • Review User Permissions: Ensure that user permissions are configured according to the principle of least privilege. Limit access to sensitive data and functions to only those users who require it.

Long-term Solutions

  • Implement Strong Authentication: Enforce strong password policies and consider implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance account security.
  • Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
  • Security Awareness Training: Provide security awareness training to users to educate them about phishing attacks and other social engineering techniques that could be used to compromise their accounts.

References

Detection & Scanning

This vulnerability can be detected by analyzing network traffic for suspicious password reset requests targeting different user accounts. Security scanners and vulnerability assessment tools can also be used to identify vulnerable installations of IBM Aspera Orchestrator.

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