CVE-2025-6650 is a security vulnerability identified in PDF-XChange Editor version 10.5.2.395, specifically related to the parsing of U3D (Universal 3D) files embedded within PDFs. The vulnerability is classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125), where the software fails to properly validate user-supplied data during the parsing process. This flaw allows an attacker to read memory beyond the allocated buffer, potentially disclosing sensitive information from the process memory space. Exploitation requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted PDF file or visiting a web page that triggers the vulnerability. While the immediate impact is limited to information disclosure, the vulnerability can be chained with other exploits to achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the PDF-XChange Editor process. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 3.3, indicating a low severity primarily due to the requirement for local access (attack vector: local), low complexity, no privileges required, and mandatory user interaction. No known exploits are currently in the wild, and no patches have been published at the time of this report. The vulnerability was reported by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-26712. The flaw's root cause is insufficient bounds checking during U3D file parsing, which is a specialized feature used for embedding 3D content in PDFs, a less commonly used functionality but potentially present in documents used in technical, engineering, or design sectors.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-6650 is the potential leakage of sensitive information from process memory when a user opens a malicious PDF containing a crafted U3D file. While the vulnerability alone does not allow code execution, it can be leveraged in multi-stage attacks, increasing risk especially in environments where PDF-XChange Editor is widely used. Sectors such as engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and design firms that handle 3D PDF documents are more exposed. Confidentiality breaches could lead to exposure of intellectual property or internal data. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing campaigns remain a risk. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability directly but could serve as a foothold for further compromise. European organizations with lax email filtering or insufficient user awareness training may be more vulnerable to exploitation attempts. Given the low CVSS score, the threat is moderate but should not be ignored, especially in critical infrastructure or organizations handling sensitive technical documents.

Implement strict email and web filtering to block or quarantine PDF files containing embedded U3D content, especially from untrusted sources. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious PDF attachments, emphasizing caution with documents containing 3D content. Monitor and restrict the use of PDF-XChange Editor version 10.5.2.395; consider upgrading to newer versions once patches are released or temporarily switching to alternative PDF readers without this vulnerability. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to PDF parsing or memory access violations. Use application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate PDF-XChange Editor processes, limiting the impact of potential exploitation. Regularly audit and inventory software versions across the organization to identify and remediate vulnerable installations promptly. Coordinate with vendors and subscribe to threat intelligence feeds for updates on patches or exploit developments related to this vulnerability.