CVE-2025-54226 is a high-severity 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 freeing memory that is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, as an attacker must convince the victim to open a specially crafted malicious InDesign file. Once triggered, the vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.8, reflecting a high impact with local attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, indicating that the vulnerability is newly disclosed. The vulnerability affects a widely used desktop publishing tool, which is common in creative industries, marketing, and publishing sectors.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those in media, advertising, publishing, and design sectors that rely heavily on Adobe InDesign Desktop for content creation. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive intellectual property, manipulate or destroy design files, or use compromised systems as footholds for broader network intrusion. Given the local attack vector and requirement for user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns distributing malicious InDesign files could be effective vectors. This could disrupt business operations, cause data breaches, and damage reputations. Additionally, compromised systems could be leveraged to move laterally within corporate networks, increasing the risk of further compromise. The lack of a patch at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for mitigation to prevent exploitation.

European organizations should implement targeted mitigation strategies beyond generic advice: 1) Educate users, especially designers and content creators, about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected InDesign files, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. 2) Employ advanced email filtering and sandboxing solutions to detect and block malicious InDesign files before they reach end users. 3) Use application whitelisting and restrict execution privileges for InDesign processes to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 4) Monitor endpoint behavior for unusual activities related to InDesign processes, such as unexpected network connections or spawning of child processes. 5) Maintain strict network segmentation to contain potential breaches originating from compromised design workstations. 6) Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Adobe releases an official fix, including testing and validation in controlled environments. 7) Consider disabling or restricting InDesign usage on systems that do not require it or use alternative software temporarily if feasible.