CVE-2021-28609 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) affecting Adobe After Effects version 18.2 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software parses a specially crafted file, allowing an attacker to read memory beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The flaw can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker who convinces a user to open a maliciously crafted After Effects project or file. Successful exploitation results in disclosure of sensitive memory information within the context of the current user, potentially leaking confidential data such as credentials, cryptographic keys, or other sensitive application data. The vulnerability does not allow direct code execution or privilege escalation but could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack chain. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically the victim opening the malicious file, which limits the attack vector to targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns. No known public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported as of the published date. The vulnerability is classified as medium severity by the vendor, reflecting the limited scope and impact. However, the out-of-bounds read can still pose a significant risk in environments where sensitive data is processed or stored within After Effects sessions.

For European organizations, the primary impact of this vulnerability lies in the potential exposure of sensitive information processed by Adobe After Effects users. Creative agencies, media companies, and any enterprises relying on After Effects for video production could inadvertently leak confidential project data or internal credentials if a malicious file is opened. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach could facilitate further attacks, such as credential theft or lateral movement within corporate networks. Organizations handling sensitive intellectual property or personal data under GDPR may face compliance risks if data leakage occurs. The requirement for user interaction reduces the likelihood of widespread automated exploitation but increases the risk from targeted spear-phishing campaigns. Additionally, the absence of known exploits suggests that the threat is currently low but could evolve if attackers develop reliable exploit code. European companies with remote or hybrid workforces may be more vulnerable due to increased file sharing and reduced direct IT oversight.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should: 1) Ensure all Adobe After Effects installations are updated to versions later than 18.2 where this vulnerability is patched, even though no direct patch link is provided, checking Adobe's official security advisories is critical. 2) Implement strict email and file scanning policies to detect and quarantine suspicious After Effects project files, particularly those received from untrusted sources. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected project files and encourage verification of file origins before opening. 4) Employ application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques to restrict After Effects from accessing sensitive system resources or network communications during file processing. 5) Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual activity following file openings, which could indicate exploitation attempts. 6) Integrate endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous memory access patterns or suspicious file parsing behaviors. 7) For organizations with high-value intellectual property, consider isolating After Effects usage to dedicated workstations with limited network access to reduce lateral movement risk.