CVE-2025-54210 is a high-severity out-of-bounds write vulnerability (CWE-787) affecting Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.4, 19.5.4, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles memory boundaries, allowing an attacker to write data outside the intended buffer limits. Such memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically opening a crafted malicious InDesign file. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, indicating a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or deliver the malicious file to the victim. No privileges are required (PR:N), but user interaction (UI:R) is necessary. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system (C:H/I:H/A:H). Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been published yet. The vulnerability is significant because Adobe InDesign is widely used in creative industries for desktop publishing, and successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further lateral movement within a network.

For European organizations, especially those in media, publishing, advertising, and design sectors, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Compromise of InDesign Desktop could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive intellectual property, client data, and internal communications. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, attackers could manipulate or steal proprietary content or inject malicious payloads into documents distributed externally, damaging reputation and client trust. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious files. Additionally, compromised endpoints could serve as footholds for broader network intrusion, threatening operational continuity. The lack of a patch increases exposure time, and organizations relying heavily on Adobe InDesign may face increased risk of targeted attacks.

Organizations should implement a multi-layered defense strategy. First, educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected InDesign files, emphasizing verification of file sources. Employ email and endpoint security solutions capable of scanning and blocking malicious attachments, including sandboxing suspicious files. Restrict the use of InDesign Desktop to trusted users and environments, and consider application whitelisting to prevent execution of unauthorized files. Monitor endpoint behavior for anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. Until a patch is released, consider isolating systems running vulnerable versions or using virtualized environments to open untrusted files. Maintain regular backups of critical data to enable recovery in case of compromise. Finally, stay informed about Adobe’s security advisories to apply patches promptly once available.