CVE-2025-14420 is a path traversal vulnerability identified in pdfforge PDF Architect version 9.1.74.23030, specifically within the CBZ file parsing functionality. The root cause is improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory (CWE-22), where user-supplied paths are not properly validated before being used in file operations. This flaw allows an attacker to craft a malicious CBZ file containing path traversal sequences that escape intended directories, enabling overwriting or creation of arbitrary files on the victim’s system. By leveraging this, an attacker can execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise depending on user privileges. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a malicious CBZ file or visiting a malicious page that triggers the vulnerability. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. Although no public exploits are known yet, the vulnerability was assigned by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) as ZDI-CAN-27514 and published on December 23, 2025. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be available, increasing the urgency for mitigation. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to environments where PDF Architect is used to handle CBZ files, especially in enterprise or critical infrastructure settings.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized code execution, data theft, or system disruption if exploited. Since PDF Architect is used for document management and editing, attackers could leverage this flaw to implant malware, steal sensitive documents, or disrupt business operations. The requirement for user interaction limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users frequently open untrusted files or receive documents from external sources. Confidentiality is at risk due to potential data exposure, integrity can be compromised through unauthorized file modifications, and availability may be affected if malicious code disrupts system functions. The impact is heightened in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure where document integrity and confidentiality are paramount. Additionally, organizations with lax endpoint security or insufficient user training are more vulnerable. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high CVSS score indicates that successful exploitation would have severe consequences.

Organizations should immediately audit their use of pdfforge PDF Architect and identify installations running version 9.1.74.23030. Until an official patch is released, restrict user permissions to the minimum necessary to limit the impact of code execution. Implement application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor and block suspicious activities related to PDF Architect. Educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted sources, especially CBZ files, and enforce strict email and web filtering to reduce exposure to malicious documents. Employ sandboxing or isolated environments for opening untrusted files to contain potential exploitation. Monitor logs for unusual file system activity indicative of path traversal attempts. Coordinate with pdfforge for timely patch deployment once available. Additionally, consider disabling CBZ file support if not required, or use alternative PDF tools with a better security track record. Regularly update all software and maintain robust backup strategies to recover from potential compromises.