CVE-2021-21094 is a security vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787) affecting Adobe Bridge versions 10.1.1 and earlier, as well as 11.0.1 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when Adobe Bridge parses a specially crafted file, leading to an out-of-bounds write condition. Such a condition can corrupt memory and potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. The exploitation requires no authentication but does require user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a maliciously crafted file. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling code execution, which could lead to data theft, system compromise, or disruption of services. There are no known exploits in the wild, and no official patches are linked in the provided information, although Adobe typically addresses such vulnerabilities in security updates. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed in April 2021 and has been enriched by CISA, indicating recognition by US cybersecurity authorities. The attack vector is local in the sense that the attacker must convince the user to open a malicious file, which could be delivered via phishing emails, malicious downloads, or removable media. The scope is limited to systems running vulnerable versions of Adobe Bridge, a digital asset management application widely used by creative professionals for organizing media files. Since the code execution occurs with the privileges of the current user, the impact depends on the user's permissions on the system. The vulnerability does not require authentication but does require user interaction, which somewhat limits the ease of exploitation compared to fully remote vulnerabilities without user action.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-21094 can be significant, especially in sectors relying heavily on Adobe Bridge for digital asset management, such as media, advertising, publishing, and creative industries. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive intellectual property, deploy malware, or move laterally within a network. Given that Adobe Bridge is often used on workstations with access to critical media assets, the compromise of these endpoints could disrupt business operations and damage reputations. Additionally, if the compromised user has elevated privileges or access to network shares, the attacker could escalate the attack further. The requirement for user interaction means that social engineering or phishing campaigns are likely attack vectors, which are common and effective in Europe. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits over time. Organizations with remote or hybrid work environments may face increased risk due to less controlled endpoint security. Overall, the vulnerability poses a medium risk but should be addressed promptly to prevent potential exploitation and data breaches.

1. Apply official Adobe Bridge updates as soon as they become available. Monitor Adobe security advisories regularly for patches addressing CVE-2021-21094. 2. Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to reduce the likelihood of malicious files reaching end users. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected files, especially from unknown sources, emphasizing the need for caution with email attachments and downloads. 4. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior or exploitation attempts related to memory corruption vulnerabilities. 5. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized files and scripts on workstations running Adobe Bridge. 6. Limit user privileges on workstations to the minimum necessary to reduce the impact of potential code execution. 7. Consider network segmentation to isolate systems running Adobe Bridge from critical infrastructure to contain potential breaches. 8. Regularly back up important digital assets managed by Adobe Bridge to enable recovery in case of compromise. 9. Conduct phishing simulation exercises to improve user awareness and resilience against social engineering attacks that could trigger exploitation.