CVE-2025-61832 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Adobe InDesign Desktop versions 20.5, 19.5.5, and earlier. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of heap memory during the processing of certain file inputs, which can lead to overwriting memory buffers beyond their allocated size. This memory corruption can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. The attack vector requires the victim to open a maliciously crafted InDesign file, making user interaction mandatory for exploitation. The vulnerability does not require any prior authentication or elevated privileges, increasing its risk profile. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with metrics indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), required user interaction (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits are known at this time, the potential for arbitrary code execution makes this a critical concern for organizations relying on Adobe InDesign for desktop publishing and design workflows. The absence of published patches necessitates proactive mitigation strategies until official updates are released.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly for those in the media, publishing, advertising, and creative industries where Adobe InDesign is widely used. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data theft, manipulation of design files, disruption of publishing workflows, or the establishment of persistent footholds within corporate networks. The compromise of user accounts could also facilitate lateral movement and further attacks on sensitive systems. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, organizations could face operational downtime, reputational damage, and potential regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is exposed. The requirement for user interaction somewhat limits mass exploitation but targeted spear-phishing campaigns or supply chain attacks distributing malicious InDesign files could be effective vectors. The lack of patches increases the window of exposure, emphasizing the need for immediate risk management.

1. Restrict the opening of InDesign files to trusted sources only, implementing strict email and file transfer filtering to block suspicious attachments. 2. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate Adobe InDesign processes, limiting the impact of potential exploitation. 3. Enforce the principle of least privilege by ensuring users run InDesign with minimal necessary permissions to reduce the scope of code execution. 4. Monitor endpoint behavior for anomalous activities related to InDesign, such as unexpected process spawning or network connections. 5. Educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted sources and implement robust phishing awareness training. 6. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing potential exploitation scenarios involving design software. 7. Stay alert for official Adobe patches or updates and prioritize their deployment once available. 8. Consider using file integrity monitoring on critical design assets to detect unauthorized modifications.