CVE-2026-18178 in Db2 Mirror for i
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2026
IBM Db2 Mirror for i 7.4, 7.5, and 7.6 could allow a remote authenticated attacker to delete arbitrary files due to path traversal.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2026
This vulnerability exists in IBM Db2 Mirror for i versions 7.4, 7.5, and 7.6, representing a critical path traversal flaw that enables remote authenticated attackers to execute unauthorized file deletion operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the application's file handling mechanisms, allowing malicious users to manipulate file paths through crafted requests. When authenticated users submit specially constructed parameters to the system's file management functions, the application fails to properly sanitize these inputs, enabling attackers to traverse directory structures and access files outside of intended boundaries. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal vulnerability classification, which occurs when applications fail to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input that is used to access files or directories.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities, as it provides attackers with the potential to compromise system integrity and availability. An authenticated attacker could leverage this flaw to remove critical system files, configuration data, or database components that would severely impact the Db2 Mirror for i environment's functionality. The remote nature of this attack vector means that exploitation does not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the application is exposed to external networks. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to disrupt business operations by deleting essential components or to create backdoor access points through strategic file removal.
The security implications of this vulnerability are significant from both a confidentiality and integrity perspective, as it allows for unauthorized modification of system files that may contain sensitive information or control mechanisms. This flaw represents a serious deviation from proper access control implementations, where the application should enforce strict boundaries on file operations regardless of user authentication status. Organizations running these affected versions face increased risk of data loss, service disruption, and potential compliance violations due to the lack of proper file system controls. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to escalate privileges or move laterally within network environments if the Db2 Mirror for i system has access to other critical resources.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch application from IBM to address the underlying path traversal implementation issues, combined with network segmentation and access control measures to limit exposure. Organizations should implement strict input validation procedures and employ proper file path sanitization techniques to prevent unauthorized directory traversal attempts. Network administrators should consider implementing firewall rules to restrict access to Db2 Mirror for i services to trusted networks only, while security teams should monitor for suspicious file deletion activities that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks, particularly regarding input validation and privilege separation. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within their infrastructure to prevent cascading security incidents that could impact overall organizational security posture.