CVE-2025-56526 identifies a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Kotaemon version 0.11.0, a software application that processes PDF files. The vulnerability arises from improper sanitization or validation of content within PDF files, allowing an attacker to embed malicious scripts. When a user opens or interacts with a crafted PDF, the malicious script executes in the context of the application, enabling arbitrary code execution. This could allow attackers to perform actions such as stealing sensitive data, manipulating application behavior, or deploying further malware. The vulnerability does not require prior authentication, increasing its risk profile. Although no CVSS score has been assigned and no exploits are known in the wild, the nature of XSS combined with arbitrary code execution indicates a significant threat. The lack of patch information suggests that remediation is pending or that users must rely on workarounds. The vulnerability’s impact depends on the deployment context of Kotaemon, which is not widely adopted but may be present in specialized environments handling PDF workflows. The technical details confirm the vulnerability was reserved in August 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery. The absence of CWE identifiers limits detailed classification, but the core issue is classic XSS via PDF content. Organizations using Kotaemon should prepare for patch deployment and enhance monitoring for suspicious PDF activity.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, system compromise, or disruption of services. Confidentiality may be impacted if attackers extract sensitive information through the executed scripts. Integrity could be compromised by altering application data or behavior. Availability risks exist if attackers deploy payloads that disrupt normal operations. The lack of authentication requirement and the ability to trigger the vulnerability via a crafted PDF increase the attack surface, especially in environments where PDF files are frequently exchanged or processed. While Kotaemon is not a mainstream product, niche sectors such as document management, legal, or governmental agencies using this software could face targeted attacks. The absence of known exploits suggests a window for proactive defense, but also means attackers may develop exploits soon after disclosure. The impact is heightened in environments with lax PDF handling policies or insufficient endpoint protections.

Organizations should monitor vendor communications for patches addressing CVE-2025-56526 and apply them promptly once available. Until patches are released, restrict PDF file handling to trusted sources and implement strict content filtering to detect and block malicious PDFs. Employ application-level sandboxing or isolation techniques to limit the impact of potential code execution. Enhance endpoint security solutions to detect anomalous script execution or PDF-related exploits. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious PDF files. Consider disabling or limiting JavaScript execution within PDF viewers or the Kotaemon application if configurable. Implement network-level protections such as intrusion detection systems (IDS) with signatures for PDF-based attacks. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on PDF processing workflows. Maintain comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect exploitation attempts early.