CVE-2025-21163 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Adobe Illustrator versions 29.1, 28.7.3, and earlier. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of data within the application, allowing an attacker to overwrite the stack memory. When a victim opens a specially crafted malicious Illustrator file, the overflow can be triggered, enabling arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, indicating a classic stack-based buffer overflow issue. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects high severity, with vector metrics indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), required user interaction (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for full system compromise if exploited. The attack requires user interaction, limiting remote exploitation but still posing a threat through social engineering or targeted phishing campaigns delivering malicious Illustrator files. Adobe Illustrator is widely used in creative industries globally, increasing the potential impact of this vulnerability.

The exploitation of CVE-2025-21163 can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user, potentially allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt system operations. Since the vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, successful exploitation could result in data breaches, unauthorized system control, and denial of service conditions. Organizations relying on Adobe Illustrator for design and creative workflows may face operational disruptions and intellectual property theft. The requirement for user interaction reduces the risk of widespread automated exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, especially in environments where users frequently exchange Illustrator files. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate risk, but the vulnerability's high severity necessitates proactive mitigation to prevent future exploitation. Industries such as media, advertising, publishing, and any sector with significant creative content production are particularly vulnerable.

Organizations should monitor Adobe's security advisories closely and apply patches promptly once available. Until patches are released, implement strict controls on file handling by restricting the opening of Illustrator files from untrusted or unknown sources. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to Illustrator processes. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected files, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. Consider sandboxing Illustrator or running it with least privilege to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Network segmentation can help contain any compromise resulting from this vulnerability. Additionally, maintain up-to-date backups to recover from potential ransomware or destructive payloads delivered via exploitation. Security teams should also monitor logs for unusual Illustrator activity and be prepared to respond to incidents involving this vector.