CVE-2025-61842 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability affecting Adobe Format Plugins version 1.1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the plugin improperly manages memory, leading to a condition where previously freed memory is accessed. Such use-after-free conditions can cause unpredictable behavior, including memory corruption or exposure of sensitive data residing in freed memory regions. In this case, the vulnerability specifically allows an attacker to disclose sensitive information from memory, potentially leaking confidential data. Exploitation requires user interaction, as the victim must open a crafted malicious file that triggers the vulnerable code path within the plugin. The attack vector is local (AV:L), meaning the attacker needs to have the file opened on the victim’s machine, but no privileges or authentication are required. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 5.5 reflects a medium severity level due to the high confidentiality impact but no impact on integrity or availability. The scope remains unchanged (S:U), indicating the vulnerability affects only the vulnerable component without impacting other system components. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, suggesting limited active exploitation at this time. However, the risk remains significant for environments where sensitive data is processed using Adobe Format Plugins, especially in sectors handling confidential documents.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-61842 is the potential exposure of sensitive information through memory disclosure. This can lead to data breaches involving confidential business information, personal data, or intellectual property. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and legal services, which often handle sensitive documents and rely on Adobe products, are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious file) means that phishing or social engineering attacks could be used to deliver the exploit. While the vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, the confidentiality breach could result in regulatory penalties under GDPR and damage to organizational reputation. Additionally, organizations with strict data protection requirements may face compliance challenges if such vulnerabilities are exploited. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Immediately audit and inventory all systems using Adobe Format Plugins to identify affected versions (1.1.1 and earlier). 2) Restrict or disable the use of Adobe Format Plugins where possible, especially in high-risk environments or on endpoints processing sensitive data. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening files from untrusted or unknown sources to reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation via social engineering. 4) Implement advanced email filtering and endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting and blocking malicious files targeting this vulnerability. 5) Monitor for updates or patches from Adobe and apply them promptly once available. 6) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution scope of potentially malicious files. 7) Conduct regular security awareness training focusing on phishing and safe file handling practices. 8) Use Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools to detect and prevent unauthorized data exfiltration that could result from exploitation.