CVE-2025-64086 is a NULL pointer dereference vulnerability identified in the util.readFileIntoStream component of PDF-XChange Editor version 10.7.3.401. This vulnerability arises when the application processes a specially crafted input file, causing the program to dereference a NULL pointer, which leads to a crash and denial of service (DoS). The flaw is classified under CWE-476 (NULL Pointer Dereference). The vulnerability can be triggered remotely without requiring any privileges (AV:N/PR:N), but it does require user interaction (UI:R), such as opening a malicious PDF file. The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is confined to the vulnerable application instance. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting a medium severity level, with no impact on confidentiality or integrity but a high impact on availability. No patches or fixes have been published yet, and there are no known exploits in the wild. The vulnerability could be leveraged by attackers to disrupt business operations by crashing the PDF-XChange Editor application, potentially interrupting workflows that depend on PDF document handling. Given the widespread use of PDF-XChange Editor in various industries, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk, especially in environments where PDF files are frequently exchanged or processed.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-64086 is the potential for denial of service, which could disrupt business processes relying on PDF-XChange Editor for document viewing and editing. Sectors such as finance, legal, government, and healthcare, which often use PDF documents extensively, may experience operational interruptions. Although the vulnerability does not allow data theft or modification, the loss of availability can delay critical workflows and reduce productivity. Organizations with automated PDF processing pipelines or those that rely on PDF-XChange Editor as a standard tool may face increased risk. Additionally, if exploited in targeted attacks, this vulnerability could be used as a distraction or part of a multi-stage attack. The lack of a patch increases exposure time, and the requirement for user interaction means social engineering or phishing could be used to deliver the malicious file. Overall, the impact is moderate but significant enough to warrant immediate attention in environments where uptime and document accessibility are critical.

1. Until an official patch is released, restrict or limit the use of PDF-XChange Editor version 10.7.3.401, especially in high-risk or critical environments. 2. Employ application sandboxing or containerization to isolate PDF-XChange Editor processes, minimizing the impact of crashes. 3. Implement strict email and file scanning policies to detect and block potentially malicious PDF files before they reach end users. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious PDF files, emphasizing caution with attachments from unknown sources. 5. Monitor application logs and system behavior for signs of crashes or unusual activity related to PDF-XChange Editor. 6. Consider deploying alternative PDF viewers with a better security track record until a patch is available. 7. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential service disruptions. 8. Stay informed on vendor advisories and apply patches promptly once released.