CVE-2025-47152 is a medium-severity vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125) found in the EMF (Enhanced Metafile) processing functionality of PDF-XChange Editor version 10.6.0.396, a popular PDF editing software developed by PDF-XChange Co. Ltd. The vulnerability arises when the software processes a specially crafted EMF file embedded or opened within a PDF document. An out-of-bounds read occurs when the program reads memory outside the intended buffer boundaries, which can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information from adjacent memory areas. This vulnerability does not allow code execution or modification of data but can leak confidential data residing in memory, potentially exposing sensitive user or system information. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring no privileges (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R), such as opening a malicious PDF file containing the crafted EMF. The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact is high on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or mitigations have been officially released at the time of this report. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on August 5, 2025, with the issue reserved in June 2025. The vulnerability specifically targets the EMF rendering component, which is used to display vector graphics within PDFs, a common feature in PDF-XChange Editor. Attackers could craft malicious PDF documents containing the malformed EMF files and distribute them via email or other file-sharing methods to trick users into opening them, thereby leaking sensitive memory contents.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily related to confidentiality breaches. Sensitive information such as cryptographic keys, personal data, or proprietary business information could be inadvertently exposed if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. Organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, government, and legal services, which frequently handle confidential PDF documents and use PDF-XChange Editor, are particularly at risk. Since the attack requires user interaction (opening a malicious PDF), phishing campaigns or targeted spear-phishing attacks could be effective vectors. The medium severity and lack of integrity or availability impact mean that while data leakage is a concern, system stability or data modification is not directly threatened. However, leaked information could be leveraged for further attacks or espionage. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially given the widespread use of PDF-XChange Editor in European enterprises and public institutions. The vulnerability could also affect compliance with GDPR if personal data is exposed, leading to regulatory and reputational consequences.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Immediately audit and inventory all systems using PDF-XChange Editor version 10.6.0.396 to identify affected installations. 2) Until an official patch is released, restrict or disable the opening of PDFs from untrusted or unknown sources, especially those containing embedded EMF files. 3) Employ email filtering solutions that scan and block suspicious PDF attachments or those containing embedded vector graphics like EMF. 4) Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PDF files and encourage verification of file sources. 5) Use application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques to isolate PDF-XChange Editor processes, limiting potential data exposure. 6) Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual PDF file access or suspicious user behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. 7) Engage with the vendor to obtain timely patches or updates and apply them promptly once available. 8) Consider alternative PDF viewers or editors with a better security track record for sensitive environments until the vulnerability is resolved.