CVE-2021-45057 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability (CWE-787) affecting Adobe InDesign version 16.4 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles JPEG2000 image files, allowing a specially crafted malicious JPEG2000 file to trigger an out-of-bounds write condition. Such a memory corruption flaw can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a malicious JPEG2000 file within Adobe InDesign. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or prior authentication, but successful exploitation depends on social engineering or tricking the user into opening a crafted file. There are no known exploits in the wild reported to date, and no official patch links are provided in the data. The vulnerability is classified as medium severity by the source, reflecting a moderate risk due to the requirement of user interaction and the scope limited to the current user's privileges. The flaw could be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data compromise or further system compromise depending on the user's permissions. The vulnerability is specific to Adobe InDesign, a professional desktop publishing software widely used for creating layouts, magazines, and marketing materials.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-45057 depends largely on the extent of Adobe InDesign usage within their workflows. Organizations in publishing, marketing, advertising, and media sectors that rely heavily on Adobe InDesign are at higher risk. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data theft, insertion of malicious content, or lateral movement within corporate networks if the compromised user has network access. Since the vulnerability executes code with the current user's privileges, the impact is limited if users operate with least privilege; however, if users have elevated rights, the risk increases significantly. The requirement for user interaction reduces the likelihood of widespread automated exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, especially spear-phishing campaigns delivering malicious JPEG2000 files. European organizations with strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) could face compliance risks if exploitation leads to data breaches. Additionally, compromised marketing or publishing content could damage brand reputation or lead to misinformation. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests limited immediate threat but does not preclude future exploitation attempts.

1. Apply official Adobe patches or updates as soon as they become available to address this vulnerability. 2. Until patches are released, implement strict file handling policies: block or restrict opening JPEG2000 files from untrusted sources within Adobe InDesign. 3. Employ endpoint security solutions capable of detecting and blocking exploitation attempts involving malformed image files. 4. Educate users, especially those in creative and publishing roles, about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected image files, emphasizing caution with JPEG2000 files. 5. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code and monitor for unusual process behavior related to Adobe InDesign. 6. Enforce least privilege principles to limit the impact of potential code execution by ensuring users do not operate with administrative rights unnecessarily. 7. Monitor network and endpoint logs for suspicious activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 8. Consider disabling or limiting support for JPEG2000 files in Adobe InDesign if feasible within operational constraints.