CVE-2025-49525 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) affecting Adobe Illustrator versions 28.7.6, 29.5.1, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when Illustrator processes certain crafted files that cause the application to read memory outside the intended bounds. Such out-of-bounds reads can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information residing in adjacent memory areas. The vulnerability requires user interaction, specifically that a victim must open a maliciously crafted Illustrator file to trigger the flaw. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or the file must be opened locally, with low attack complexity (AC:L) and no privileges required (PR:N). However, user interaction (UI:R) is necessary. The impact is primarily on confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity or availability. No known exploits are reported in the wild as of the published date. No patches or fixes have been linked yet, suggesting that mitigation may rely on cautious handling of files and monitoring for updates from Adobe. This vulnerability is significant because Adobe Illustrator is widely used by creative professionals and organizations for graphic design, and leaking sensitive memory could expose confidential project data or intellectual property.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability could be substantial in sectors relying heavily on Adobe Illustrator for design and creative work, such as advertising agencies, media companies, and product design firms. Disclosure of sensitive memory could lead to leakage of proprietary designs, client information, or internal project details, potentially causing reputational damage and intellectual property loss. Since exploitation requires opening a malicious file, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver the payload. The medium severity score reflects that while the vulnerability does not allow code execution or system compromise, the confidentiality breach could still have serious consequences, especially for organizations handling sensitive or regulated data. Additionally, the lack of a patch at the time of disclosure increases the window of exposure. European organizations must be vigilant in controlling file sources and educating users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious Illustrator files.

1. Implement strict email and file filtering policies to block or quarantine unsolicited Illustrator files, especially from unknown or untrusted sources. 2. Educate users on the risks of opening files from unverified senders and encourage verification before opening Illustrator documents. 3. Use sandboxing or isolated environments to open Illustrator files when possible, limiting potential exposure. 4. Monitor for updates from Adobe and apply patches promptly once available. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior related to Illustrator processes. 6. Consider disabling or restricting the use of Illustrator in high-risk environments until a patch is released. 7. Maintain regular backups of critical design files and sensitive data to mitigate potential data loss from related attacks. 8. Collaborate with IT security teams to implement application whitelisting and restrict execution of unauthorized files.