CVE-2025-46577 is a SQL injection vulnerability identified in ZTE's GoldenDB database product, specifically affecting versions 6.1.03 and 7.2.01.01. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands (CWE-89), allowing an attacker with limited privileges (PR:L) to inject malicious SQL commands remotely (AV:N) without requiring user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges beyond limited access and can be exploited over the network, making it relatively accessible to attackers who have some level of authenticated access. The core risk is the unauthorized extraction of sensitive database information, impacting confidentiality (C:H), while integrity and availability remain unaffected (I:N, A:N). The vulnerability is rated with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.5, categorized as medium severity. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, and no official patches have been released at the time of publication (April 27, 2025). The vulnerability arises because GoldenDB fails to properly sanitize or parameterize SQL queries, allowing attackers to manipulate query logic to retrieve unauthorized data from the database. This can lead to data breaches, exposure of sensitive business or personal information, and potential compliance violations. Given GoldenDB's role as a database management system, exploitation could compromise backend data stores critical to enterprise operations.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those relying on ZTE GoldenDB for critical data storage and processing. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of confidential data, including personal data protected under GDPR, intellectual property, or sensitive business information. This could result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and loss of customer trust. Since the vulnerability allows data extraction without affecting data integrity or availability, attackers may remain undetected while exfiltrating data. Organizations in sectors such as telecommunications, finance, government, and critical infrastructure—where ZTE products are more commonly deployed—are particularly at risk. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is serious, exploitation requires some level of authenticated access, which may limit exposure but does not eliminate risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive mitigation. However, the lack of patches means organizations must rely on compensating controls until official fixes are available.

1. Implement strict access controls to limit who can authenticate and access GoldenDB instances, employing the principle of least privilege to reduce the risk of exploitation. 2. Monitor and audit database query logs for unusual or suspicious SQL commands that could indicate injection attempts. 3. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) or database activity monitoring tools capable of detecting and blocking SQL injection patterns specific to GoldenDB. 4. Where possible, isolate GoldenDB instances within secure network segments and restrict network access to trusted hosts only. 5. Encourage developers and DBAs to review and refactor any application code interfacing with GoldenDB to ensure proper use of parameterized queries or stored procedures, minimizing injection risk. 6. Prepare for patch deployment by establishing a rapid update process once ZTE releases official patches. 7. Conduct penetration testing focused on SQL injection vectors against GoldenDB to identify and remediate vulnerabilities proactively. 8. Educate internal teams about the risks and signs of SQL injection attacks to improve detection and response capabilities.