CVE-2025-14412 is a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability identified in Soda PDF Desktop version 14.0.509.23030, specifically related to the handling of XLS files. The root cause is a CWE-356 weakness, meaning the product UI fails to warn users adequately about unsafe actions. In this case, when an XLS file containing dangerous scripts is opened, the application executes these scripts without sufficient user notification or consent, allowing arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a malicious XLS file or visiting a crafted webpage that triggers the vulnerability. The CVSS v3.0 score is 7.8 (high), reflecting the vulnerability's potential to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges (PR:N), but user interaction (UI:R). The vulnerability scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is limited to the user context. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of XLS files and Soda PDF Desktop in business environments. The lack of UI warnings increases the likelihood of successful exploitation by tricking users into opening malicious files without suspicion.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially resulting in data theft, system compromise, or disruption of business operations. Since the code executes with the current user's privileges, the impact depends on the user's access level; administrative users could face full system compromise. The use of XLS files is common in financial, administrative, and operational workflows across Europe, increasing exposure. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to deploy malware, ransomware, or establish persistence within networks. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive corporate or personal data, while integrity and availability impacts could disrupt critical business processes. The requirement for user interaction means social engineering or phishing campaigns could be used to exploit this vulnerability, which is a common attack vector in Europe. Organizations with insufficient endpoint protection or user training are particularly vulnerable.

1. Apply patches or updates from Soda PDF as soon as they become available to address this vulnerability. 2. Until patches are released, restrict or disable the opening of XLS files within Soda PDF Desktop, especially from untrusted sources. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious script execution within documents. 4. Enhance user awareness training focused on recognizing phishing attempts and suspicious XLS files. 5. Employ network-level controls to block or monitor access to known malicious URLs that could host exploit pages. 6. Use sandboxing or isolated environments for opening untrusted XLS files to prevent lateral movement or system compromise. 7. Monitor logs and endpoint behavior for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 8. Consider alternative PDF tools with stronger security postures for handling XLS content if patching is delayed.