CVE-2025-49155 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element) affecting Trend Micro Apex One, specifically the Data Loss Prevention (DLP) module in version 2019 (14.0). This vulnerability arises because the software improperly controls the search path for loading executable code or libraries. An attacker can exploit this by injecting a malicious component into the search path, causing the system to load and execute arbitrary code under the context of the Apex One service. The vulnerability does not require privileges (PR:N) but does require user interaction (UI:R), such as the user triggering a process or opening a file that causes the vulnerable component to load. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), meaning an attacker can exploit it remotely without physical access. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), allowing full compromise of the affected system. The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is limited to the vulnerable component and does not extend beyond it. No known exploits are currently in the wild, but the high CVSS score (8.8) indicates a significant risk. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation. Trend Micro Apex One is widely deployed in enterprise environments for endpoint protection and data loss prevention, making this vulnerability particularly critical in environments where sensitive data is handled. The uncontrolled search path element can be exploited by attackers to escalate privileges or maintain persistence within a network, potentially leading to broader compromise if leveraged in multi-stage attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49155 can be severe. Trend Micro Apex One is commonly used by enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure providers across Europe for endpoint security and data loss prevention. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, disruption of security monitoring, and full system compromise. This is especially critical for sectors handling personal data under GDPR, as breaches could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, the ability to execute arbitrary code remotely without prior authentication increases the risk of widespread attacks, including ransomware deployment or espionage. The DLP module’s compromise undermines data protection controls, potentially allowing exfiltration of confidential information. Organizations in finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and public administration are particularly at risk due to their reliance on Apex One and the sensitivity of their data. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as a foothold for lateral movement within networks, increasing the risk of large-scale incidents. Given the lack of patches, organizations face a window of exposure that requires immediate attention to prevent exploitation.

1. Immediate deployment of compensating controls such as network segmentation to isolate systems running Trend Micro Apex One, limiting exposure to untrusted networks. 2. Restrict user permissions and enforce the principle of least privilege to reduce the impact of potential code execution. 3. Monitor logs and endpoint behavior for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, including unexpected process launches or DLL loads. 4. Disable or restrict the use of the Data Loss Prevention module if feasible until a vendor patch is available. 5. Implement application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution from untrusted paths. 6. Conduct targeted user awareness training to minimize risky user interactions that could trigger exploitation. 7. Regularly check Trend Micro advisories for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once released. 8. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to detect and respond to suspicious activities related to this vulnerability. 9. Review and harden system environment variables and PATH settings to prevent injection of malicious components into the search path. 10. Engage with Trend Micro support for guidance and potential workarounds specific to affected versions.