CVE-2025-52386 identifies a vulnerability in CycloneDX Sunshine version 0.9, specifically a CSV Formula Injection triggered via a crafted JSON file. CycloneDX Sunshine is a tool or component related to software bill of materials (SBOM) generation or processing, which likely handles JSON input to produce CSV outputs. The vulnerability arises when maliciously crafted JSON input is processed and subsequently exported or saved as CSV files without proper sanitization or neutralization of embedded formulas. CSV Formula Injection occurs when spreadsheet applications interpret cell content starting with characters like '=', '+', '-', or '@' as formulas, which can execute arbitrary commands or scripts when the CSV is opened. This can lead to code execution, data exfiltration, or other malicious activities on the user's machine. Although the affected versions are not explicitly specified beyond version 0.9, the vulnerability is confirmed in that release. No CVSS score is assigned yet, and no known exploits are reported in the wild. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not be publicly available at this time. The vulnerability is categorized under general software vulnerabilities without specific CWE identifiers provided. The exploitation requires the attacker to supply a crafted JSON file that is processed by CycloneDX Sunshine, which then outputs a CSV file containing malicious formulas. The attack vector involves social engineering or supply chain compromise to get the victim to open the resulting CSV in a spreadsheet application that supports formula execution, such as Microsoft Excel or LibreOffice Calc. This vulnerability primarily threatens the confidentiality and integrity of data on the victim's system and potentially the availability if destructive payloads are used. It does not require authentication but does require user interaction to open the malicious CSV file. The scope is limited to users of CycloneDX Sunshine v0.9 who process untrusted JSON inputs and open resulting CSV files.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-52386 can be significant, especially for those involved in software development, supply chain management, or security auditing where CycloneDX Sunshine is used to generate or process SBOMs. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on systems of analysts or developers who open the malicious CSV files, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, or lateral movement within corporate networks. Since SBOM tools are increasingly adopted for compliance with European regulations such as the EU Cybersecurity Act and NIS2 Directive, organizations relying on CycloneDX Sunshine may face operational disruptions and compliance risks. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against software supply chains, which are critical infrastructure components in Europe. The risk is heightened in sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, where data integrity and confidentiality are paramount. However, the absence of known exploits and the requirement for user interaction somewhat limit immediate widespread impact. Still, the potential for social engineering attacks exploiting this vulnerability remains a concern.

To mitigate CVE-2025-52386, European organizations should: 1) Avoid processing untrusted or unauthenticated JSON files with CycloneDX Sunshine v0.9 until a patch is available. 2) Implement strict input validation and sanitization to neutralize any formula-like content before exporting to CSV. 3) Educate users to be cautious when opening CSV files from untrusted sources, especially those generated from SBOM tools. 4) Use spreadsheet software settings or plugins that disable automatic formula execution or prompt users before executing formulas in CSV files. 5) Monitor for updates from CycloneDX Sunshine maintainers and apply patches promptly once released. 6) Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting suspicious macro or formula execution behaviors. 7) Consider alternative SBOM tools or newer versions that do not exhibit this vulnerability. 8) Incorporate this vulnerability into supply chain risk assessments and incident response plans to quickly identify and respond to potential exploitation attempts.