CVE-2026-16184
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Remote Authentication Bypass in IBM WebSphere

Publication date: 2026-07-28

Last updated on: 2026-07-28

Assigner: IBM Corporation

Description
IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0, and 8.5 could allow a remote attacker to bypass authentication by sending a crafted unauthenticated request.

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Meta Information

Published
2026-07-28
Last Modified
2026-07-28
Generated
2026-07-29
AI Q&A
2026-07-28
EPSS Evaluated
N/A
NVD
CVE-2026-16184
EUVD
EUVD-2026-50016

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 2 associated CPEs
Vendor Product Version / Range
ibm websphere_application_server From 9.0.0.0 (inc) to 9.0.5.28 (inc)
ibm websphere_application_server From 8.5.0.0 (inc) to 8.5.5.30 (inc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-862 The product does not perform an authorization check when an actor attempts to access a resource or perform an action.

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Executive Summary

IBM WebSphere Application Server 9.0 and 8.5 are vulnerable to an authentication bypass. A remote attacker can send a specially crafted unauthenticated request to gain unauthorized access. This is due to missing authorization checks (CWE-862).

Detection Guidance

Detecting this vulnerability requires checking if your IBM WebSphere Application Server versions are affected. Verify installed versions using commands like 'java -jar /opt/IBM/WebSphere/AppServer/bin/versionInfo.sh' or checking the server logs for version details. Monitor network traffic for unusual authentication requests or unauthorized access attempts.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could exploit this to gain unauthorized access to the server, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized actions, or system compromise. The impact includes risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the application.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, potentially violating data protection requirements under GDPR and HIPAA. Non-compliance may result in legal penalties, fines, or reputational damage due to compromised sensitive data.

Mitigation Strategies

Apply the interim fix for APAR DT496677 or upgrade to Fix Pack 9.0.5.29 (for 9.0) or 8.5.5.31 (for 8.5). If upgrading, ensure the fix pack is installed before Q3 2026. Disable unnecessary services and restrict network access to the server until patched.

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