CVE-2022-28857 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) affecting Adobe InDesign versions 16.4.2 and earlier, as well as 17.3 and earlier. This vulnerability allows an attacker to read memory outside the bounds of a buffer, potentially disclosing sensitive information stored in memory. The flaw can be exploited when a user opens a specially crafted malicious InDesign file, which triggers the out-of-bounds read condition. This can lead to the leakage of sensitive data from the process memory, which may include information that can be used to bypass security mitigations such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR). ASLR is designed to randomize memory addresses to prevent reliable exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities; bypassing it increases the likelihood of successful exploitation of other vulnerabilities. The vulnerability requires user interaction, specifically opening a malicious file, and there are no known exploits in the wild as of the published date. Adobe has not provided patch links in the available information, but affected versions are clearly identified. The vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality by exposing sensitive memory contents, but does not directly enable code execution or denial of service. The attack vector is local via user interaction, limiting remote exploitation without social engineering or phishing to deliver the malicious file.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-28857 is primarily related to confidentiality breaches. Organizations using Adobe InDesign for publishing, marketing, or design workflows may be at risk if employees open maliciously crafted InDesign files. Disclosure of sensitive memory contents could lead to leakage of intellectual property, internal documents, or credentials stored in memory, which could facilitate further attacks. While the vulnerability does not directly allow remote code execution, the ability to bypass ASLR could be leveraged in multi-stage attacks targeting high-value assets. Industries such as media, publishing, advertising, and any sector relying on Adobe InDesign for document creation are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for user interaction means that phishing campaigns or targeted social engineering could be used to deliver the exploit. Given the widespread use of Adobe products in Europe, especially in countries with large creative industries, the risk is non-negligible. However, the absence of known exploits in the wild and the medium severity rating suggest the immediate threat level is moderate but should not be ignored.

Ensure all Adobe InDesign installations are updated to the latest available version beyond 16.4.2 and 17.3, as Adobe typically releases patches for such vulnerabilities. If patches are not yet available, monitor Adobe security advisories closely. Implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine suspicious InDesign files, especially from untrusted sources, to reduce the risk of malicious file delivery. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected InDesign files, emphasizing verification of file sources before opening. Use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to memory access violations or exploitation attempts within Adobe InDesign processes. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques for Adobe InDesign to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Regularly audit and monitor logs for unusual activity related to Adobe InDesign usage, including unexpected file openings or crashes that could indicate exploitation attempts. Consider network segmentation to isolate systems running Adobe InDesign from critical infrastructure to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.