CVE-2025-27198 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) identified in Adobe Photoshop Desktop versions 25.12.1, 26.4.1, and earlier. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory buffers when processing certain file inputs, which can lead to overwriting heap memory. An attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious file that, when opened by the victim in Photoshop, triggers the overflow and allows arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The attack vector requires user interaction, specifically opening a malicious file, and does not require prior authentication or elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as arbitrary code execution can lead to data theft, system compromise, or denial of service. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the potential impact and ease of exploitation with user interaction. No patches were linked at the time of reporting, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild, indicating the threat is currently theoretical but with significant risk if weaponized. Adobe Photoshop is widely used globally in creative, media, and professional environments, making this vulnerability a critical concern for organizations relying on this software for content creation and editing.

The potential impact of CVE-2025-27198 is substantial for organizations worldwide that use Adobe Photoshop Desktop. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to execute malicious payloads, steal sensitive data, manipulate or destroy files, and potentially move laterally within a network if the compromised user has elevated privileges. This can result in intellectual property theft, disruption of creative workflows, and broader network compromise. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files, increasing the risk in environments where users frequently exchange image files. The impact extends to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and data. Organizations in industries such as media, advertising, design, and digital content production are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on Photoshop. Additionally, the lack of available patches at the time of disclosure increases exposure until remediation is applied.

To mitigate CVE-2025-27198 effectively, organizations should: 1) Monitor Adobe’s security advisories closely and apply official patches immediately upon release to address the vulnerability. 2) Implement strict file handling policies that restrict or scan files before opening in Photoshop, especially files from untrusted sources. 3) Employ endpoint protection solutions with advanced heuristic and behavior-based detection capabilities to identify and block exploitation attempts. 4) Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or untrusted origins and train them to recognize phishing or social engineering tactics. 5) Use application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation by isolating Photoshop processes. 6) Maintain regular backups of critical data and ensure recovery procedures are tested to minimize damage from potential attacks. 7) Consider network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a compromise occurs. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on proactive detection, user awareness, and containment strategies tailored to the nature of this vulnerability.