CVE-2021-28603 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) found in Adobe After Effects version 18.2 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software parses a specially crafted file, leading to an overflow condition in the heap memory. The overflow can corrupt adjacent memory structures, potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires no prior authentication but does require user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a maliciously crafted After Effects project or media file. The vulnerability is significant because After Effects is widely used in video production and multimedia content creation, environments where opening files from various sources is common. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the nature of heap-based buffer overflows makes this a critical concern if weaponized. The lack of a patch link suggests that remediation may require updating to a later, unaffected version or applying vendor-provided fixes once available. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling arbitrary code execution, which could lead to data theft, manipulation, or system compromise. However, the requirement for user interaction and the need to open a malicious file somewhat limit the ease of exploitation.

For European organizations, especially those involved in media production, advertising, film, and digital content creation, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially allowing attackers to deploy malware, steal intellectual property, or disrupt production workflows. Given that Adobe After Effects is a standard tool in creative industries, the impact could extend to critical business operations and sensitive creative assets. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for lateral movement within corporate networks, increasing the risk of broader organizational compromise. The confidentiality of proprietary multimedia content and the integrity of production pipelines are at particular risk. The availability of systems could also be affected if attackers deploy ransomware or destructive payloads. The medium severity rating reflects the balance between the potential damage and the exploitation complexity, but organizations should not underestimate the risk due to the high value of affected assets.

Organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Ensure Adobe After Effects is updated to the latest version beyond 18.2 where this vulnerability is patched; if an official patch is not yet available, consider restricting the use of After Effects to trusted files only. 2) Implement strict file validation and sandboxing policies for files received from external or untrusted sources to prevent opening malicious files. 3) Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors associated with heap overflows and arbitrary code execution. 4) Educate users, particularly creative teams, about the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted sources and encourage verification of file origins. 5) Use application whitelisting to limit the execution of unauthorized code and scripts spawned by After Effects processes. 6) Monitor network and system logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 7) Consider deploying virtualized or isolated environments for opening and testing files from external sources to contain potential exploitation.