CVE-2025-48998 is a high-severity SQL Injection vulnerability affecting DataEase, an open source business intelligence and data visualization tool. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 2.10.10 and involves improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands (CWE-89). Specifically, it allows authenticated users to bypass a previous patch (CVE-2025-27103) and leverage the background JDBC connection to read and deserialize arbitrary files. This means that an attacker with valid credentials can exploit this flaw to execute unauthorized SQL commands, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and deserialization of arbitrary files, which could result in remote code execution or further compromise. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a CVSS 4.0 base score of 7.3, indicating high severity. The attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity and no user interaction required, but it does require privileges of an authenticated user. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity significantly, as it allows reading sensitive data and potentially altering system behavior through deserialization attacks. The issue was fixed in DataEase version 2.10.10, and no known workarounds exist. No known exploits are currently in the wild, but the presence of a bypass for a previous patch suggests that attackers may attempt to exploit this vulnerability in the future. The vulnerability also relates to CWE-862 (Missing Authorization), indicating that insufficient authorization checks contribute to the issue.

For European organizations using DataEase for business intelligence and data visualization, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive business data, including financial reports, customer information, and strategic analytics, potentially resulting in data breaches and compliance violations under GDPR. The ability to deserialize arbitrary files could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application, leading to system compromise, lateral movement, and disruption of business operations. Given that DataEase is used in data-driven decision-making processes, any compromise could undermine trust in data integrity and availability. The lack of known workarounds means organizations must prioritize patching to prevent exploitation. Additionally, the requirement for authenticated access means insider threats or compromised credentials could be leveraged by attackers. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, and organizations may face regulatory penalties and reputational damage if exploited.

European organizations should immediately upgrade DataEase installations to version 2.10.10 or later to remediate this vulnerability. Since no workarounds exist, patching is the primary defense. Organizations should also audit and restrict user privileges to minimize the number of users with authenticated access capable of exploiting this vulnerability. Implement strong authentication mechanisms, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Conduct thorough logging and monitoring of DataEase access and JDBC connection activities to detect any anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Network segmentation should be employed to isolate DataEase servers from less trusted network zones, limiting exposure. Additionally, organizations should review and harden authorization controls within DataEase to ensure proper access restrictions are enforced, mitigating CWE-862 related risks. Regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on SQL injection and deserialization vectors in DataEase deployments are recommended to identify residual risks.