CVE-2025-61820 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) affecting Adobe Illustrator versions 28.7.10, 29.8.2, and earlier. This vulnerability arises from improper handling of data in memory, which allows an attacker to overwrite parts of the heap, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. The attack vector requires user interaction, specifically the victim opening a maliciously crafted Illustrator file, which triggers the overflow condition. Successful exploitation can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system by enabling execution of attacker-controlled code. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, reflecting its high impact and relatively low attack complexity, although it requires user interaction and local access (AV:L). No public exploits or active exploitation in the wild have been reported as of now. The vulnerability affects a widely used creative software product, increasing the potential attack surface, especially in organizations relying on Adobe Illustrator for design and media production. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate risk mitigation through alternative controls. The vulnerability's scope is limited to the user context, meaning it does not inherently escalate privileges beyond the current user but can be a stepping stone for further compromise.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-61820 can be significant, particularly for those in sectors such as media, advertising, graphic design, and publishing where Adobe Illustrator is extensively used. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, data theft, or disruption of creative workflows. Confidentiality may be compromised if sensitive design files or intellectual property are accessed or exfiltrated. Integrity could be affected if attackers modify design files or inject malicious content. Availability risks include potential crashes or denial of service of Illustrator or the host system. Since exploitation requires user interaction, social engineering or phishing campaigns targeting European employees could be leveraged. The disruption could extend to supply chains and client deliverables, impacting business continuity and reputation. Additionally, organizations subject to GDPR must consider the regulatory implications of data breaches resulting from exploitation. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once patches are released.

1. Apply official Adobe patches immediately once they become available to remediate the vulnerability. 2. Until patches are released, restrict the opening of Illustrator files from untrusted or unknown sources, including email attachments and downloads. 3. Implement endpoint security solutions with heuristic and behavior-based detection to identify suspicious Illustrator process activities. 4. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected Illustrator files and promote cautious handling of email attachments. 5. Employ application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized software and scripts. 6. Use network segmentation to isolate systems running Illustrator, reducing lateral movement potential. 7. Monitor logs and alerts for unusual Illustrator process behavior or crashes that may indicate exploitation attempts. 8. Consider disabling or limiting macros or scripting features within Illustrator if applicable. 9. Maintain regular backups of critical design files to enable recovery in case of compromise. 10. Coordinate with incident response teams to prepare for potential exploitation scenarios.