CVE-2025-54225 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability affecting Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.4, 19.5.4, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, specifically by referencing memory after it has been freed. Such a flaw can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The exploitation vector requires user interaction: an attacker must convince the victim to open a specially crafted malicious InDesign file. Once opened, the vulnerability can be triggered, allowing the attacker to execute code that could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker must have local access or the victim must perform an action (opening the file). No privileges are required (PR:N), but user interaction is mandatory (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. However, given Adobe InDesign's widespread use in creative and publishing industries, this vulnerability poses a significant risk if weaponized. The vulnerability could be leveraged to execute malicious payloads, install malware, or gain persistent access to compromised systems.

For European organizations, especially those in the creative, publishing, marketing, and media sectors where Adobe InDesign is heavily used, this vulnerability could lead to severe operational disruptions and data breaches. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to theft of intellectual property, insertion of malicious content into published materials, or lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, sensitive design files and proprietary content could be compromised or altered. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files, increasing the risk in environments with less stringent email and file handling policies. Additionally, compromised systems could be used as footholds for broader attacks, including ransomware or espionage, which are of particular concern given Europe's regulatory environment (e.g., GDPR) and the high value placed on data protection. The absence of a patch at this time increases the window of exposure, necessitating immediate mitigation efforts.

1. Implement strict email and file handling policies to reduce the risk of malicious InDesign files reaching end users, including blocking or quarantining suspicious attachments. 2. Educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted or unknown sources, emphasizing the specific threat posed by malicious InDesign documents. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors associated with exploitation attempts, such as unusual memory access patterns or process injections. 4. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code and scripts that might be launched through exploitation. 5. Monitor and restrict the use of Adobe InDesign to only those users who require it, minimizing the attack surface. 6. Prepare to deploy patches promptly once Adobe releases them; maintain close communication with Adobe security advisories. 7. Consider sandboxing or running Adobe InDesign in isolated environments to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 8. Regularly back up critical design files and ensure backups are stored securely and offline to mitigate the impact of potential ransomware attacks following exploitation.