CVE-2025-61815 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability identified in Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.5, 19.5.5, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the application improperly manages memory, specifically freeing an object while still retaining references to it, which can be subsequently accessed. An attacker can craft a malicious InDesign file that, when opened by a user, triggers this Use After Free condition, allowing arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The vulnerability requires user interaction—opening the malicious file—and does not require any prior authentication or elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the combination of local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), required user interaction (UI:R), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk because it can lead to full system compromise, data theft, or disruption of services. Adobe has not yet released patches, but organizations should prepare to deploy updates promptly once available. The vulnerability is particularly concerning for environments where InDesign is widely used, such as creative agencies, publishing houses, and marketing departments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences including unauthorized code execution, data breaches, and potential disruption of business operations. Since Adobe InDesign is widely used in creative industries, media, and publishing sectors across Europe, exploitation could compromise sensitive intellectual property and client data. The ability to execute arbitrary code as the current user means attackers could install malware, move laterally within networks, or exfiltrate data. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing campaigns using malicious InDesign files could be effective. The impact extends to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, potentially causing reputational damage and financial losses. Organizations with lax endpoint security or insufficient user training are at higher risk. The absence of patches at the time of disclosure increases the window of exposure.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels for patches and apply them immediately upon release to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine suspicious InDesign files from untrusted sources. 3. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected files, especially from unknown senders. 4. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Use application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code and scripts. 6. Isolate systems running InDesign in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromised. 7. Regularly back up critical data and verify restore procedures to mitigate impact of potential ransomware or destructive payloads delivered via exploitation. 8. Conduct simulated phishing exercises to raise awareness about targeted attacks leveraging this vulnerability.