CVE-2025-54211 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.4, 19.5.4, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the application improperly handles memory allocation on the heap, allowing an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory regions. Such a flaw can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The exploitation vector requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a maliciously crafted InDesign file. Upon opening this file, the vulnerability can be triggered, potentially allowing an attacker to execute code with the same privileges as the user running InDesign. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-122, indicating a classic heap-based buffer overflow issue. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high severity level due to the combined impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, ease of exploitation (low attack complexity), and the requirement for user interaction but no privileges or authentication. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, suggesting that mitigation may currently rely on workarounds or defensive controls until Adobe releases an official update. The vulnerability affects widely used versions of Adobe InDesign Desktop, a professional desktop publishing software commonly used in creative industries for designing and publishing documents, which makes it a significant concern for organizations relying on this software for content creation and publication workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, especially for those in sectors such as media, publishing, advertising, and design agencies where Adobe InDesign is a critical tool. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive intellectual property, manipulate or destroy design files, or establish persistence within the victim's environment. This could result in data breaches, disruption of business operations, and potential reputational damage. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious InDesign files, increasing the risk vector. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for lateral movement within corporate networks, potentially affecting broader IT infrastructure. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of critical design assets and related business data are at risk. Given the high CVSS score and the nature of the vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize addressing this issue promptly to avoid exploitation that could lead to significant operational and financial consequences.

1. Immediate mitigation should include educating users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected InDesign files, especially those received via email or untrusted sources. 2. Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to detect and block potentially malicious InDesign files. 3. Employ endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior related to Adobe InDesign processes. 4. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized files and scripts. 5. Isolate systems running Adobe InDesign from critical network segments to limit potential lateral movement if compromised. 6. Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual activity originating from workstations running InDesign. 7. Regularly back up design files and critical data to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8. Stay alert for official patches or security advisories from Adobe and apply updates promptly once available. 9. Consider deploying sandbox environments for opening untrusted InDesign files to contain potential exploitation attempts. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on user awareness, network segmentation, and proactive detection tailored to the specific threat vector of malicious InDesign files.