CVE-2025-32451 is a high-severity memory corruption vulnerability identified in Foxit Reader version 2025.1.0.27937. The root cause is the use of an uninitialized pointer within the application, classified under CWE-824 (Access of Uninitialized Pointer). This flaw can be triggered by a specially crafted JavaScript embedded inside a malicious PDF document. When a user opens such a PDF file in the vulnerable Foxit Reader, the uninitialized pointer usage leads to memory corruption, which can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution. Additionally, exploitation is possible if a user visits a malicious website hosting a crafted PDF and the Foxit Reader browser plugin extension is enabled, expanding the attack surface beyond just opening local files. The vulnerability requires user interaction (opening the malicious PDF or visiting a malicious site) but does not require any privileges or prior authentication. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. No known exploits in the wild have been reported yet, and no patches are currently linked, indicating that organizations using this version remain vulnerable until an official fix is released.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant. Foxit Reader is widely used across enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions in Europe due to its lightweight footprint and feature set. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, espionage, or ransomware deployment. The ability to exploit via malicious websites if the browser plugin is enabled increases risk, especially for users who frequently access PDFs online. Confidential data handled in PDFs, including contracts, personal data under GDPR, and intellectual property, could be exposed or manipulated. The vulnerability threatens system integrity and availability, potentially disrupting business operations. Given the high CVSS score and the common use of Foxit Reader, European organizations face a tangible risk of targeted attacks or opportunistic exploitation once exploits become available.

Organizations should immediately assess their deployment of Foxit Reader 2025.1.0.27937 and disable the Foxit Reader browser plugin extension to reduce the attack surface from web-based vectors. Users must be educated to avoid opening PDFs from untrusted or unknown sources. Network defenses such as email gateways and web proxies should be configured to detect and block malicious PDFs containing suspicious JavaScript. Until an official patch is released, consider deploying application whitelisting or sandboxing for Foxit Reader to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Monitoring endpoint behavior for anomalies related to Foxit Reader processes can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also prepare for rapid patch deployment once Foxit releases a fix. Finally, reviewing and restricting user privileges can limit the damage from successful exploitation.