CVE-2025-14416 is a remote code execution vulnerability identified in pdfforge PDF Architect version 9.1.74.23030. The root cause is a CWE-356 weakness, where the product's user interface fails to adequately warn users about unsafe actions when processing DOC files. Specifically, the software allows execution of dangerous scripts embedded within DOC files without prompting the user, which can be exploited by attackers to run arbitrary code in the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a malicious DOC file or visiting a malicious webpage that triggers the vulnerability. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling attackers to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or disruption of services. The CVSS v3.0 score is 7.0 (high), reflecting the requirement for user interaction and high complexity of attack but no privileges required. No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, and no known exploits in the wild have been reported. The vulnerability was reserved and published in December 2025 by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-27503. This vulnerability highlights the risk of insufficient UI warnings in document processing applications, which can be leveraged for remote code execution attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-14416 can be significant, especially for those relying on pdfforge PDF Architect for document management and processing. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, install malware, or disrupt business operations. This threat is particularly concerning for sectors handling confidential documents such as finance, government, healthcare, and legal services. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious DOC files. Given the high CVSS score, the vulnerability poses a substantial risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems. Organizations with lax controls on document handling or insufficient user training are more vulnerable. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits once patches are released or reverse-engineered.

1. Monitor pdfforge’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-14416 and apply them promptly upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict or disable the processing of DOC files within PDF Architect where feasible. 3. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to detect and block suspicious script execution originating from document processing applications. 4. Educate users on the risks of opening DOC files from untrusted or unknown sources, emphasizing caution with email attachments and links. 5. Employ network-level protections such as email filtering and sandboxing to detect and quarantine malicious documents before reaching end users. 6. Use least privilege principles to limit user permissions, reducing the impact of any code execution. 7. Conduct regular security awareness training focusing on social engineering and phishing tactics that could deliver malicious DOC files. 8. Audit and monitor logs for unusual activities related to PDF Architect or script execution to detect potential exploitation attempts early.