CVE-2025-49527 is a high-severity stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-121) affecting Adobe Illustrator versions 28.7.6, 29.5.1, and earlier. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of data within the application’s memory stack, allowing an attacker to overwrite critical memory regions. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a maliciously crafted Illustrator file. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user, potentially compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high impact with low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction necessary. The vulnerability affects local attack vectors (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or trick the user into opening the malicious file. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been linked yet. Given Adobe Illustrator’s widespread use in creative industries, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to users who handle untrusted or externally sourced Illustrator files.

For European organizations, especially those in design, advertising, media, and publishing sectors, this vulnerability could lead to significant operational disruptions and data breaches. Compromise of Illustrator could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to lateral movement within corporate networks, data exfiltration, or deployment of ransomware. Since the exploit requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns targeting employees who use Illustrator are plausible attack vectors. The impact extends beyond individual workstations to potentially sensitive intellectual property and client data. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact, organizations could face financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

Organizations should prioritize the following mitigations: 1) Immediately monitor Adobe’s official channels for patches and apply updates as soon as they become available. 2) Implement strict email and file filtering to detect and block suspicious Illustrator files, especially from untrusted sources. 3) Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected Illustrator files, emphasizing cautious handling of email attachments and downloads. 4) Use application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to restrict Illustrator’s ability to execute arbitrary code or access sensitive system resources. 5) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 6) Regularly back up critical data and ensure backups are isolated from the main network to mitigate ransomware risks. 7) Review and enforce the principle of least privilege for user accounts running Illustrator to limit potential damage from exploitation.