CVE-2025-61843 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 improperly handles certain crafted files, leading to reading memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. Such out-of-bounds reads can expose sensitive information residing in adjacent memory areas, potentially leaking confidential data to an attacker. Exploitation requires that a victim user opens a maliciously crafted file, implying user interaction is necessary. No privileges are required for exploitation, but the attacker must convince the user to open the file, which could be delivered via email, download, or removable media. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality (high impact) but does not affect integrity or availability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.5, reflecting a medium severity level, with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:R), unchanged scope (S:U), high confidentiality impact (C:H), and no integrity or availability impact (I:N/A:N). Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, and no patches have been released, increasing the importance of interim mitigations. The vulnerability affects a widely used Adobe plugin, which is commonly integrated into various Adobe products for handling multiple file formats, making it relevant for organizations relying on Adobe software for document and media processing.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-61843 is the potential exposure of sensitive information due to memory disclosure when users open malicious files. This can lead to leakage of confidential business data, intellectual property, or personally identifiable information (PII), which could have regulatory and reputational consequences under GDPR. Since exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files. The vulnerability does not allow code execution or system compromise directly but could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack to gather intelligence or credentials. Organizations in sectors such as finance, government, legal, and media that frequently handle sensitive documents and use Adobe products are at higher risk. The lack of a patch means organizations must rely on detection and prevention controls until an official fix is available. The medium severity score indicates moderate urgency but should not be ignored given the potential confidentiality impact.

1. Implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine suspicious or unexpected file types that could exploit this vulnerability. 2. Educate users on the risks of opening files from untrusted or unknown sources, emphasizing caution with email attachments and downloads. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous file access or memory reading behaviors associated with Adobe Format Plugins. 4. Restrict the use of Adobe Format Plugins to only necessary users and systems, minimizing exposure. 5. Use application whitelisting and sandboxing to isolate Adobe applications and limit the impact of malicious files. 6. Monitor vendor communications closely for patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 7. Consider disabling or removing the affected plugins if feasible until a patch is released. 8. Conduct regular security awareness training focusing on social engineering and phishing tactics that could deliver malicious files.