CVE-2021-45052 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) affecting Adobe Bridge versions 11.1.2 and earlier, as well as version 12.0 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when Adobe Bridge processes specially crafted TIF image files, leading to an out-of-bounds read condition. Such a flaw allows an attacker to read memory locations outside the intended buffer boundaries, potentially disclosing sensitive information from the process memory. The disclosed memory could include sensitive data or pointers that may assist an attacker in bypassing security mitigations such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR). Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a malicious TIF file within Adobe Bridge. There are no known exploits in the wild reported to date, and no patches have been linked in the provided information, indicating that remediation may rely on vendor updates or mitigations. The vulnerability does not allow direct code execution or privilege escalation but can be leveraged as a stepping stone in a multi-stage attack by leaking memory layout information to facilitate further exploitation.

For European organizations, the primary impact of this vulnerability lies in the potential disclosure of sensitive memory contents, which could include cryptographic keys, user credentials, or internal application data. This information leakage can undermine the confidentiality of organizational data and aid attackers in bypassing ASLR, increasing the risk of subsequent exploitation such as remote code execution or privilege escalation. Organizations heavily reliant on Adobe Bridge for digital asset management, particularly in sectors like media, advertising, design, and publishing, may face increased risk. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious TIF file) means that targeted phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to exploit this vulnerability. While the vulnerability itself is rated medium severity, its exploitation could facilitate more severe attacks, especially in environments where Adobe Bridge is integrated into workflows handling sensitive or proprietary content. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time.

1. Limit the use of Adobe Bridge to trusted sources and restrict the opening of TIF files from unverified or external origins. 2. Implement strict email and file filtering to detect and block malicious TIF files before they reach end users. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious image files, emphasizing caution with TIF files received via email or download. 4. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate Adobe Bridge processes, minimizing potential impact from exploitation. 5. Monitor for updates from Adobe and apply patches promptly once available, as vendor remediation is expected to address this vulnerability. 6. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify anomalous behaviors related to Adobe Bridge or suspicious file access patterns. 7. Consider disabling or limiting Adobe Bridge usage in environments where it is not essential, reducing the attack surface. 8. Maintain regular backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromise scenarios that may leverage this vulnerability.