CVE-2021-42722 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) affecting Adobe Bridge version 11.1.1 and earlier. The vulnerability arises during the parsing of a specially crafted file, where the software reads beyond the allocated memory boundary. This improper memory access can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information or potentially enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a maliciously crafted file in Adobe Bridge. The vulnerability does not appear to have been exploited in the wild to date, and no official patches or updates have been linked in the provided information. Given that Adobe Bridge is a digital asset management application widely used by creative professionals to organize and preview multimedia files, the vulnerability could be leveraged to compromise user systems, especially in environments where Adobe Bridge is integrated into workflows handling untrusted files. The attack vector is local and user-driven, limiting the scope of exploitation but still posing a significant risk if targeted files are delivered via phishing or other social engineering methods.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability could be significant, particularly for those in creative industries, media, advertising, and any sectors relying on Adobe Bridge for digital asset management. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges, move laterally within networks, or exfiltrate sensitive data. Confidentiality may be compromised if sensitive project files or intellectual property are accessed. Integrity could be affected if malicious code alters files or system configurations. Availability impact is likely limited but could occur if exploitation leads to application crashes or system instability. Since exploitation requires user interaction, the risk is heightened in environments where users frequently handle files from external or untrusted sources. European organizations with remote or hybrid work models may face increased exposure due to file sharing outside traditional network perimeters. Additionally, the lack of a patch increases the window of vulnerability, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation.

1. Implement strict file handling policies: Educate users to avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources, especially within Adobe Bridge. 2. Use application whitelisting and sandboxing: Restrict Adobe Bridge’s ability to execute or interact with other system components beyond its intended scope. 3. Employ network-level protections: Use email and web gateways to scan and block malicious files before they reach end users. 4. Monitor and restrict user privileges: Limit Adobe Bridge usage to non-administrative accounts to reduce the impact of potential code execution. 5. Enable endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions: Monitor for anomalous behaviors related to Adobe Bridge processes. 6. Maintain up-to-date backups of critical data to enable recovery in case of compromise. 7. Stay informed on Adobe’s security advisories for any forthcoming patches or updates addressing this vulnerability. 8. Consider temporarily restricting or disabling Adobe Bridge in high-risk environments until a patch is available. 9. Implement file integrity monitoring on directories where Adobe Bridge accesses files to detect unauthorized changes.