CVE-2025-54268 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) identified in Adobe Bridge, affecting versions 14.1.8, 15.1.1, and earlier. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of heap memory during processing of certain file inputs, which can be crafted maliciously to overflow buffers and overwrite adjacent memory. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected system. The attack vector requires local access and user interaction, specifically the victim opening a maliciously crafted file in Adobe Bridge. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling code execution that could lead to data theft, system manipulation, or denial of service. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction needed. No patches or known exploits are currently available, but the vulnerability has been publicly disclosed as of October 15, 2025. Adobe Bridge is widely used in creative and media industries for digital asset management, making this vulnerability particularly relevant to organizations relying on these workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-54268 can be significant, especially for those in media, advertising, design, and other creative sectors that heavily utilize Adobe Bridge for asset management. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of critical workflows. Since the vulnerability runs with the privileges of the current user, the extent of damage depends on user rights; administrative users could face full system compromise. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing or social engineering campaigns could be effective. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as footholds for lateral movement within networks, increasing overall organizational risk. The absence of patches increases exposure duration, necessitating immediate mitigation efforts. The confidentiality and integrity of sensitive creative assets and client data are at risk, potentially causing reputational damage and regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is involved.

Until Adobe releases an official patch, European organizations should implement several specific mitigations: 1) Enforce strict file handling policies by restricting or sandboxing the types of files that can be opened in Adobe Bridge, especially from untrusted sources. 2) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files and implement phishing awareness training tailored to creative teams. 3) Utilize endpoint protection solutions with heuristic and behavior-based detection to identify anomalous activities related to Adobe Bridge processes. 4) Apply application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized code execution and restrict Adobe Bridge usage to trusted users only. 5) Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6) Isolate critical creative workstations from sensitive networks to limit lateral movement. 7) Prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Adobe releases updates by maintaining an up-to-date asset inventory and patch management process. 8) Consider disabling Adobe Bridge temporarily in high-risk environments if feasible.