CVE-2025-61840 is a medium-severity vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125) affecting Adobe Format Plugins version 1.1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the plugin processes specially crafted files, leading to reading memory beyond the intended buffer boundaries. Such out-of-bounds reads can expose sensitive information residing in adjacent memory areas, potentially leaking confidential data such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or other sensitive application data. The attack vector requires local user interaction, specifically the victim opening a maliciously crafted file, which triggers the vulnerability. No privileges are required to exploit this flaw, but user interaction is mandatory. The vulnerability does not allow modification of data or denial of service but compromises confidentiality. Adobe has not yet released a patch, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium impact primarily on confidentiality with low complexity of attack. This vulnerability is significant for environments where Adobe Format Plugins are used to handle untrusted files, especially in sectors handling sensitive information. The lack of authentication requirements and the ease of triggering the vulnerability via user action make it a plausible vector for targeted information disclosure attacks.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-61840 is the potential exposure of sensitive information through memory disclosure. This can undermine confidentiality, especially in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure where Adobe products are widely used. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract confidential data, which may facilitate further attacks such as credential theft or espionage. Although the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, the leakage of sensitive data can lead to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR and other data protection laws, resulting in legal and financial repercussions. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but does not eliminate risk, particularly in environments with high file exchange volumes or where users may be targeted with phishing campaigns. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation. However, once exploited, the impact on confidentiality can be significant, especially if sensitive memory contents are exposed.

1. Immediately implement strict controls on file handling by restricting the types of files that can be opened with Adobe Format Plugins, especially from untrusted sources. 2. Educate users to avoid opening files from unknown or suspicious origins and increase awareness of phishing attempts that may deliver malicious files. 3. Disable or uninstall Adobe Format Plugins where feasible until a security patch is released. 4. Monitor and audit file access and plugin usage to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing to isolate Adobe applications and limit the impact of potential exploitation. 6. Once Adobe releases a patch, prioritize timely deployment across all affected systems. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify suspicious memory access patterns or unusual application behavior. 8. Implement network-level protections such as email filtering and attachment scanning to reduce the likelihood of malicious files reaching end users. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector (malicious files) and limiting plugin exposure until a patch is available.