CVE-2025-61824 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) identified in Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.5, 19.5.5, and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the application improperly handles memory allocation on the heap, allowing an attacker to overwrite memory buffers. Successful exploitation requires a victim to open a specially crafted malicious InDesign file, triggering the overflow. This can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious payloads, escalate privileges, or disrupt application functionality. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects high severity, with attack vector local (requiring user interaction), low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction necessary. The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as attackers can execute arbitrary code and possibly compromise sensitive data or system stability. No patches are currently linked, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild, indicating the vulnerability is newly disclosed. Adobe InDesign is widely used in creative and publishing sectors, making this vulnerability significant for organizations relying on this software for content creation and design workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-61824 is considerable, especially for those in media, publishing, advertising, and design industries where Adobe InDesign is a critical tool. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, data theft, or disruption of design workflows, potentially causing operational downtime and reputational damage. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive client or intellectual property data. Integrity impacts could corrupt design files or project data, while availability impacts might disrupt business continuity. Since exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be leveraged to deliver malicious files. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. European organizations with lax patch management or insufficient user training are particularly vulnerable. The threat also extends to supply chain risks if malicious files propagate through collaborative workflows.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels closely for patches addressing CVE-2025-61824 and apply updates promptly once available. 2. Until patches are released, restrict the opening of InDesign files from untrusted or unknown sources, implementing strict file validation policies. 3. Enhance user awareness training focusing on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files, emphasizing social engineering tactics. 4. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unusual memory operations or code injection. 5. Implement application whitelisting and sandboxing for Adobe InDesign to limit the impact of potential exploits. 6. Use network segmentation to isolate systems running InDesign from critical infrastructure to contain any compromise. 7. Regularly back up design files and critical data to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8. Employ email filtering and attachment scanning to reduce the likelihood of malicious files reaching end users. These measures collectively reduce the attack surface and improve detection and response capabilities.