CVE-2021-28621 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) found in Adobe Animate version 21.0.6 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles memory bounds during processing of certain input data, leading to the potential for reading memory outside the intended buffer. An unauthenticated attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious Animate file that, when opened by a victim, triggers the out-of-bounds read. This can lead to arbitrary code execution within the security context of the current user. The exploitation requires user interaction, specifically the victim opening a malicious file, which is typical for document-based vulnerabilities. Although no public exploits are known to be in the wild, the vulnerability poses a risk due to the potential for remote code execution. The lack of a patch link in the provided data suggests that remediation may require updating to a later, fixed version of Adobe Animate or applying security updates from Adobe. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability by allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or disruption of service. However, the requirement for user interaction and the absence of known active exploitation reduce the immediacy of the threat. Adobe Animate is widely used for creating interactive animations and multimedia content, often in creative and marketing industries, but also in educational and enterprise environments where multimedia content is developed or consumed.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-28621 can be significant, especially for those relying on Adobe Animate for content creation, marketing, e-learning, or multimedia production. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive data, deploy malware, or move laterally within corporate networks. This is particularly concerning for industries with high intellectual property value such as media, advertising, and design firms. Additionally, compromised systems could be used as footholds for broader attacks against critical infrastructure or government entities. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files, increasing risk in environments with less stringent email or file handling policies. The medium severity rating reflects the balance between the potential damage and the exploitation complexity. However, organizations with high-value assets or regulatory obligations under GDPR should consider this vulnerability a serious risk due to the potential for data breaches and operational disruption.

European organizations should implement targeted mitigations beyond generic patching advice: 1) Ensure all Adobe Animate installations are updated to the latest version where this vulnerability is patched. If immediate patching is not possible, restrict the use of Adobe Animate to trusted users and environments. 2) Implement strict email and file filtering policies to detect and block suspicious Animate files or attachments, especially from unknown or untrusted sources. 3) Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected multimedia files, emphasizing the need for caution with files received via email or external sources. 4) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques for Adobe Animate to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 5) Monitor endpoint behavior for unusual activities indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected process launches or memory access violations. 6) Use network segmentation to isolate systems running Adobe Animate from critical infrastructure to reduce lateral movement opportunities. 7) Regularly review and update incident response plans to include scenarios involving multimedia file exploitation.