CVE-2025-61836 is an integer underflow vulnerability classified under CWE-191 affecting Adobe Illustrator on iPad versions 3.0.9 and earlier. An integer underflow occurs when an arithmetic operation attempts to reduce a numeric value below its minimum representable value, causing it to wrap around to a very large number. In this context, the flaw likely arises from improper handling of integer values during file parsing or internal processing of Illustrator files. This vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker crafting a malicious Illustrator file that, when opened by the victim on an iPad, triggers the underflow condition. The resulting memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user, potentially allowing the attacker to execute malicious payloads, steal data, or disrupt application functionality. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) indicates that the attack requires local access (local vector), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is necessary. The scope is unchanged, and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high. No patches or known exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. The vulnerability's presence in a widely used creative application on a popular mobile platform increases its potential impact, especially for organizations relying on Adobe Illustrator for professional design work on iPads.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive design files and intellectual property. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal proprietary artwork, inject malicious content, or disrupt creative workflows. Industries such as advertising, media, publishing, and design agencies that heavily use Illustrator on iPad devices are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files. Compromise of user devices could also serve as a foothold for lateral movement within corporate networks, especially if iPads are integrated into enterprise environments. The lack of a patch increases the urgency for interim mitigations. Additionally, the vulnerability could impact freelancers and small businesses across Europe that rely on Illustrator on iPad, potentially leading to financial and reputational damage.

1. Immediately educate users about the risks of opening Illustrator files from untrusted or unknown sources, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. 2. Implement strict file handling policies and sandboxing where possible to limit the impact of malicious files. 3. Monitor Adobe’s security advisories closely for the release of patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and prioritize timely deployment. 4. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to control application updates and enforce security configurations on iPads used within the organization. 5. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring suspicious behaviors on iPadOS, if available. 6. Encourage regular backups of critical design files to secure locations to mitigate data loss in case of compromise. 7. Consider restricting the use of Illustrator on iPad to trusted users or devices until a patch is available. 8. Conduct phishing awareness training to reduce the likelihood of successful social engineering attacks delivering malicious files.