CVE-2025-47136 is an integer underflow vulnerability classified under CWE-191 affecting Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 19.5.3 and earlier. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of integer values that can wrap around when decremented below zero, leading to unexpected behavior in memory management or logic flow. This flaw can be triggered when a user opens a specially crafted malicious InDesign file, causing the application to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user. The vulnerability requires user interaction (opening the file) but does not require prior authentication or elevated privileges, making it accessible to remote attackers who can convince users to open malicious files. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8 indicates high severity, with metrics AV:L (local attack vector), AC:L (low attack complexity), PR:N (no privileges required), UI:R (user interaction required), and full impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the potential for arbitrary code execution makes this a critical concern for organizations using affected versions of Adobe InDesign Desktop. The lack of a patch at the time of reporting necessitates immediate mitigation efforts to reduce exposure.

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, potentially leading to full compromise of the user's environment, data theft, or disruption of operations. Since Adobe InDesign is widely used in creative, publishing, and marketing industries, exploitation could result in intellectual property theft, sabotage of design assets, or deployment of further malware within corporate networks. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations remain a significant risk. The compromise of user accounts with elevated privileges could escalate the impact to broader network compromise. Additionally, the vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, meaning attackers can steal sensitive information, alter or destroy data, and disrupt business continuity. Organizations with large creative teams or those that exchange InDesign files externally are particularly vulnerable.

Until an official patch is released by Adobe, organizations should implement strict controls on file handling, including disabling automatic opening of InDesign files from untrusted sources. User education campaigns should emphasize the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of Adobe InDesign. Network-level defenses such as email filtering and attachment scanning can reduce the likelihood of malicious files reaching end users. Monitor systems for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, including unexpected process launches or code execution patterns. Maintain up-to-date backups of critical design assets to enable recovery in case of compromise. Once Adobe releases a patch, prioritize immediate deployment across all affected systems. Consider restricting Adobe InDesign usage to trusted personnel and environments with enhanced monitoring.