CVE-2021-21055 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-426 (Untrusted Search Path) affecting Adobe Dreamweaver versions 21.0 and earlier, as well as 20.2 and earlier. This vulnerability arises because Dreamweaver improperly handles the search path for certain configuration files and dynamic libraries it loads during execution. An attacker with physical access to the affected system can exploit this flaw by replacing or inserting malicious configuration files or dynamic libraries in locations that Dreamweaver references before the legitimate ones. This manipulation can lead to unintended information disclosure, as the malicious files could cause Dreamweaver to leak sensitive data or behave in an unauthorized manner. The vulnerability requires physical access, meaning remote exploitation is not feasible under normal circumstances. There are no known exploits in the wild, and Adobe has not provided specific patches linked in the provided data, though the vulnerability was publicly disclosed in early 2021. The nature of the vulnerability is such that it compromises the integrity of the file loading process, potentially exposing confidential information stored or processed by Dreamweaver. Since Dreamweaver is a web development tool used to create and manage websites, the exposure of project files or credentials could lead to further security risks if leveraged by an attacker. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond the attacker’s physical manipulation of the system files, and it specifically impacts confidentiality more than availability or integrity of the system as a whole.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-21055 is primarily centered on confidentiality breaches. Organizations using Adobe Dreamweaver for web development and content management could face unauthorized disclosure of sensitive project files, source code, or credentials if an attacker gains physical access to their workstations or development environments. This risk is particularly relevant for organizations with lax physical security controls or those operating in shared or public spaces. The compromise of development assets could lead to intellectual property theft, exposure of internal network configurations, or leakage of customer data embedded in web projects. While the vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation, the potential for insider threats or attackers with temporary physical access (e.g., contractors, visitors) increases the risk profile. Additionally, compromised Dreamweaver files could be used as a foothold for further attacks, such as injecting malicious code into websites managed by the affected organization, which could have reputational and regulatory consequences under GDPR. The impact on availability and integrity is limited, but the confidentiality breach alone can have significant operational and compliance ramifications.

To mitigate CVE-2021-21055, European organizations should implement strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to systems running Adobe Dreamweaver. This includes securing workstations in locked offices, using cable locks, and enforcing access policies for visitors and contractors. Administrators should audit and monitor the directories and file paths used by Dreamweaver to load configuration files and dynamic libraries, ensuring that only trusted and verified files exist in these locations. Employing file integrity monitoring tools can alert administrators to unauthorized changes. Organizations should also consider running Dreamweaver with the least privilege necessary, avoiding administrative rights that could facilitate file replacement. Regularly updating Adobe Dreamweaver to the latest versions is recommended, as vendors often address such vulnerabilities in patches or newer releases. If patching is not immediately possible, organizations could use application whitelisting or endpoint protection solutions to prevent unauthorized file modifications. Additionally, educating staff about the risks of physical access attacks and enforcing clean desk policies can reduce exposure. Finally, segregating development environments from general user workstations can limit the attack surface.