CVE-2025-47136 is a high-severity integer underflow vulnerability (CWE-191) affecting Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 19.5.3 and earlier. The flaw arises from an integer underflow condition within the software, which can lead to wraparound behavior during internal calculations. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a maliciously crafted InDesign file. Once triggered, the vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate memory in a way that can overwrite critical data structures or control flow information, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected application process. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or updates have been linked yet. Given Adobe InDesign's widespread use in creative industries for desktop publishing, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to users who handle untrusted or external InDesign files.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability could be substantial, particularly for those in media, publishing, advertising, and design sectors where Adobe InDesign is heavily utilized. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive intellectual property, manipulate or destroy design documents, or establish persistence within corporate networks. The compromise of user accounts could serve as a foothold for lateral movement or data exfiltration. Since exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious files. The high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts mean that organizations could face operational disruption, reputational damage, and potential regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed or manipulated.

European organizations should implement targeted mitigations beyond generic advice. First, restrict Adobe InDesign usage to trusted users and environments, and educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted sources. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Monitor and control inbound file transfers, especially from external collaborators or clients, using file scanning solutions that can detect malformed or suspicious InDesign files. Since no patch is currently available, consider temporarily disabling InDesign or using alternative software for critical workflows if possible. Maintain robust endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Finally, establish incident response plans that include scenarios involving desktop publishing software compromise.