CVE-2025-49218 is a high-severity SQL injection vulnerability affecting version 6.0 of the Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption Policy Server. This vulnerability falls under CWE-89, indicating improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command, which allows an attacker to manipulate backend database queries. The vulnerability is post-authentication, meaning an attacker must first gain low-privileged code execution on the target system before exploiting the flaw. Once exploited, the attacker can escalate privileges by injecting malicious SQL commands that alter the behavior of the Policy Server's database interactions. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability: it can lead to unauthorized data disclosure (confidentiality), unauthorized modification of data or system settings (integrity), and potential disruption or denial of service (availability). The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.7 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), requiring low privileges (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), and a scope change (S:C), indicating that the vulnerability can affect resources beyond the initially compromised component. The similarity to CVE-2025-49215 suggests a pattern of SQL injection issues in this product line, but this particular vulnerability is distinct. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, which suggests that organizations should prioritize monitoring and mitigation efforts. The requirement for prior low-privileged code execution means that this vulnerability is likely part of a multi-stage attack chain, where initial access is gained through other means, followed by privilege escalation via this SQL injection.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49218 can be significant, especially for those relying on Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption Policy Server 6.0 to manage encryption policies and secure sensitive data. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to encryption keys or policy configurations, undermining endpoint security and potentially exposing confidential corporate or personal data. The integrity of encryption policies could be compromised, allowing attackers to weaken or disable encryption enforcement, increasing the risk of data breaches. Availability could also be affected if the database or service is disrupted, impacting business continuity. Given the critical role of endpoint encryption in compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations, exploitation could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The requirement for local access or prior code execution means that internal threats or attackers who have breached perimeter defenses pose the greatest risk. Organizations in sectors with high data sensitivity, such as finance, healthcare, and government, are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of this vulnerability.

Beyond generic patching advice, European organizations should implement a layered defense strategy: 1) Restrict and monitor local access to systems running Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption Policy Server, employing strict access controls and least privilege principles to minimize opportunities for initial low-privileged code execution. 2) Deploy application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect and prevent unauthorized code execution that could lead to exploitation. 3) Conduct thorough auditing and monitoring of database queries and application logs for anomalous SQL commands indicative of injection attempts. 4) Segment network environments to isolate critical encryption management servers, reducing lateral movement possibilities. 5) Engage in proactive vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on SQL injection vectors within the Policy Server environment. 6) Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing potential exploitation scenarios involving privilege escalation through SQL injection. 7) Coordinate with Trend Micro for timely updates and patches, and subscribe to vendor advisories to receive early warnings. 8) Educate internal IT and security teams about the multi-stage nature of this vulnerability to enhance detection and response capabilities.