CVE-2025-14413 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 affecting Soda PDF Desktop version 14.0.509.23030. The vulnerability exists in the CBZ file parsing component, where the software fails to properly validate user-supplied pathnames before performing file operations. This improper limitation allows an attacker to craft malicious CBZ files containing path traversal sequences (e.g., ../) that can escape the intended directory restrictions. When a user opens such a malicious CBZ file or visits a malicious webpage that triggers the parsing, the attacker can cause the application to write or execute arbitrary files outside the designated directories. This leads to remote code execution (RCE) in the context of the current user, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system. The CVSS 3.0 score of 7.8 reflects high severity, with attack vector local (requiring user interaction), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction necessary. The vulnerability was reported by ZDI under ZDI-CAN-27509 and published on December 23, 2025. No public exploits have been observed yet, but the potential for exploitation exists given the widespread use of Soda PDF Desktop in document management. The flaw highlights the risks of insufficient input validation in file parsing routines, especially for archive formats like CBZ that may contain multiple files and directories.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to endpoint security, particularly in sectors relying heavily on PDF and CBZ document processing such as legal, finance, publishing, and government. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. Given the vulnerability requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious CBZ files. The impact extends to confidentiality breaches, integrity violations through unauthorized file modifications, and availability disruptions via malware or ransomware deployment. Organizations with lax endpoint protections or insufficient user training are especially vulnerable. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. The vulnerability also raises compliance concerns under GDPR if personal data is compromised due to exploitation.

1. Apply vendor patches immediately once Soda PDF Desktop updates addressing CVE-2025-14413 are released. 2. Until patches are available, restrict or disable the opening of CBZ files within Soda PDF Desktop through application controls or group policies. 3. Implement endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring suspicious file system activities, especially unexpected file writes or executions originating from Soda PDF processes. 4. Conduct user awareness training focused on the risks of opening files from untrusted sources, emphasizing CBZ and other archive formats. 5. Employ network-level protections such as email filtering and web content scanning to block malicious CBZ files or links. 6. Use application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution from user directories. 7. Monitor logs for anomalies related to Soda PDF Desktop usage and file access patterns. 8. Consider sandboxing or running Soda PDF Desktop in a restricted environment to limit the impact of potential exploitation.