CVE-2025-49212 in Endpoint Encryption
Summary
by MITRE • 06/18/2025
An insecure deserialization operation in the Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption PolicyServer could lead to a pre-authentication remote code execution on affected installations. Note that this vulnerability is similar to CVE-2025-49220 but is in a different method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-49212 represents a critical security flaw within the Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption PolicyServer component that enables attackers to achieve pre-authentication remote code execution. This issue stems from an insecure deserialization operation that occurs when the system processes untrusted data inputs. The vulnerability exists in the PolicyServer module and allows malicious actors to exploit the deserialization mechanism without requiring valid authentication credentials, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged from any network location. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with common application security weaknesses that have been documented in various security frameworks and standards.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the PolicyServer's handling of serialized data structures that are processed without proper validation or sanitization. When the system receives maliciously crafted serialized objects, the deserialization process can be manipulated to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure deserialization as defined by CWE-502, which specifically addresses the risks associated with deserializing untrusted data in applications. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it operates at the application level and can potentially bypass traditional network security controls that rely on authentication mechanisms.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution as it can enable attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. The pre-authentication nature means that the attack can be launched without the need for credentials, significantly reducing the attack surface and increasing the potential for widespread compromise. Organizations utilizing Trend Micro Endpoint Encryption solutions may face severe consequences including data exfiltration, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their networks. The vulnerability's similarity to CVE-2025-49220 indicates a broader pattern of insecure deserialization issues within the Trend Micro product line, suggesting that multiple components may be susceptible to similar attacks.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the execution and privilege escalation tactics. The insecure deserialization can be mapped to the technique of code injection and may also involve privilege escalation if the affected service operates with elevated permissions. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to restrict access to the PolicyServer, applying vendor-provided patches, and monitoring for anomalous deserialization activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in application security design. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting and runtime application protection mechanisms can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to protect against similar attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar insecure deserialization patterns throughout the organization's technology stack.