CVE-2025-54279 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability identified in Adobe Animate versions 23.0.13, 24.0.10, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. The attack vector requires local access and user interaction, specifically the opening of a crafted malicious Animate file. Successful exploitation can compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability by allowing arbitrary code execution, potentially leading to data theft, system manipulation, or denial of service. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the impact on all three security properties and the relatively low complexity of exploitation (low attack complexity, no privileges required). However, the necessity for user interaction and local access limits the scope somewhat. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is published and known. Adobe has not yet released patches, so organizations must monitor for updates. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations relying on Adobe Animate for digital content creation, as attackers could leverage malicious files distributed via email or shared drives to compromise systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially to those in sectors heavily reliant on Adobe Animate, such as digital media, advertising, animation studios, and educational institutions. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of creative workflows. Since the attack requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files, increasing the risk of targeted attacks. The compromise of user accounts could also serve as a foothold for lateral movement within corporate networks. The impact extends to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems and data. Organizations with weak patch management or insufficient user training are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, the lack of current known exploits provides a window for proactive defense before widespread attacks emerge.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels closely and apply security patches for Adobe Animate immediately upon release. 2. Implement strict file handling policies to restrict opening Animate files from untrusted or unknown sources. 3. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of Adobe Animate and reduce the impact of potential exploitation. 4. Conduct user awareness training focused on recognizing phishing attempts and the risks of opening unsolicited files. 5. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for suspicious behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Enforce the principle of least privilege for user accounts running Adobe Animate to minimize potential damage. 7. Regularly back up critical data and ensure backups are isolated from the main network to recover from potential ransomware or destructive attacks stemming from exploitation. 8. Consider network segmentation to limit lateral movement if a system is compromised.