CVE-2025-54230 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability identified in Adobe FrameMaker versions 2020.8, 2022.6, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, specifically by accessing memory after it has been freed. Such a flaw can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The exploitation requires user interaction, meaning an attacker must convince a victim to open a specially crafted malicious FrameMaker 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 FrameMaker. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. The vector string (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) shows that the attack requires local access (local vector), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, meaning the attacker could fully compromise the affected system's data and functionality. No known exploits in the wild have been reported yet, and no patches or updates are currently linked, suggesting that organizations should be vigilant and prepare to apply fixes once available. The vulnerability affects a specialized product used primarily for technical document authoring and publishing, which may limit the attack surface but still poses significant risk to organizations relying on FrameMaker for critical documentation workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54230 could be substantial, especially for those in industries relying heavily on technical documentation, such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and engineering sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive intellectual property, manipulate technical documents, or move laterally within the network. Given that FrameMaker is often used to produce complex, regulated documentation, any compromise could also affect compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR if personal or sensitive data is involved. Additionally, disruption of document workflows could delay critical project timelines or regulatory submissions. Although exploitation requires user interaction, targeted spear-phishing campaigns or social engineering could be effective vectors. The lack of current patches increases the risk window, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that organizations could face data breaches, operational disruption, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited.

1. Implement strict user training and awareness programs to reduce the risk of opening malicious files, emphasizing the dangers of unsolicited or unexpected FrameMaker documents. 2. Restrict FrameMaker usage to trusted users and environments, ideally isolating it within segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromised. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect or block exploitation attempts targeting memory corruption vulnerabilities. 4. Monitor for unusual process behavior or crashes related to FrameMaker that could indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Establish strict file handling policies, including scanning all incoming FrameMaker files with advanced malware detection tools before opening. 6. Coordinate with Adobe to obtain timely patches or workarounds once released; consider temporary disabling of FrameMaker in high-risk environments until a fix is available. 7. Maintain up-to-date backups of critical documentation to ensure recovery in case of compromise. 8. Use network-level controls to limit exposure of systems running FrameMaker, including restricting access to trusted IPs and enforcing multi-factor authentication for remote access.