CVE-2025-27169 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability (CWE-787) found in Adobe Illustrator versions 29.2.1, 28.7.4, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when Illustrator improperly handles specially crafted files, leading to memory corruption through writing outside the intended buffer boundaries. Such memory corruption can be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user, potentially allowing full compromise of the affected system. The attack vector requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a malicious Illustrator file, which means social engineering or phishing campaigns could be used to deliver the exploit. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as arbitrary code execution can lead to data theft, system manipulation, or denial of service. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (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 is officially published and reserved by Adobe. Given Adobe Illustrator's widespread use in creative industries globally, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations relying on this software for design and production workflows.

The exploitation of CVE-2025-27169 can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user, potentially allowing attackers to install malware, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. Since the vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, organizations face risks including intellectual property theft, unauthorized access to internal systems, and operational downtime. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks, especially via spear-phishing or malicious file sharing. Creative industries, marketing agencies, and media companies that heavily rely on Adobe Illustrator are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for lateral movement within corporate networks, increasing the overall risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation once exploit code becomes available.

Organizations should prioritize updating Adobe Illustrator to patched versions once Adobe releases them. Until patches are available, implement strict controls on file sources by restricting or scanning Illustrator files received via email or downloaded from untrusted websites. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing to limit the execution of unauthorized code. Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted sources, emphasizing caution with unsolicited attachments. Network segmentation can reduce the impact of a compromised system. Monitoring for unusual process behavior or memory corruption indicators related to Illustrator may help detect exploitation attempts. Incident response plans should be updated to address potential exploitation scenarios involving this vulnerability. Finally, coordinate with Adobe support channels for timely updates and advisories.