CVE-2025-49553 is a DOM-based Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in Adobe Connect versions 12.9 and earlier. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of untrusted data within the Document Object Model (DOM), allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser. Exploitation requires the victim to interact with a maliciously crafted web page or link, which triggers the execution of the injected script. This script can then perform actions such as session hijacking, stealing authentication tokens, or manipulating the user interface to deceive the user. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, indicating a failure to properly sanitize or encode user-controllable input before it is processed by the DOM. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.3 reflects the critical nature of this flaw, with an attack vector over the network, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component, increasing the potential impact. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the high severity and ease of exploitation through social engineering make this a significant threat. Adobe Connect is widely used for virtual meetings, webinars, and remote collaboration, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on it for secure communication. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate risk mitigation strategies.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49553 can be substantial. Adobe Connect is commonly used across various sectors including education, government, finance, and enterprise for remote collaboration and communication. Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to session hijacking, allowing attackers to impersonate legitimate users, access sensitive information, and potentially manipulate meeting content or recordings. This compromises confidentiality and integrity of communications and data. The vulnerability does not affect availability directly but can undermine trust in the platform and disrupt business operations if exploited. Given the increased reliance on remote work and virtual meetings in Europe, particularly post-pandemic, the risk is amplified. Organizations handling sensitive or regulated data (e.g., GDPR-protected personal data) face additional compliance risks if breaches occur. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to lure victims, increasing the attack surface. Overall, the vulnerability poses a critical risk to secure communications and data protection within European enterprises and public sector entities.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels closely for the release of security patches addressing CVE-2025-49553 and apply them immediately upon availability. 2. Until patches are available, implement web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block malicious scripts or suspicious URL parameters targeting Adobe Connect instances. 3. Conduct user awareness training focused on recognizing phishing attempts and suspicious links, as exploitation requires user interaction. 4. Restrict access to Adobe Connect portals via network segmentation and VPNs to limit exposure to external attackers. 5. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to reduce the risk of script injection and execution within browsers. 6. Review and harden input validation and output encoding practices if custom integrations or extensions are used with Adobe Connect. 7. Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected session token usage or anomalous script execution. 8. Consider temporary alternative collaboration tools if risk tolerance is low and patching is delayed. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on interim protective controls and user-centric defenses tailored to the nature of this DOM-based XSS vulnerability.