CVE-2025-61844 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, causing it to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. Such out-of-bounds reads can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information stored in memory, such as cryptographic keys, passwords, or other confidential data. The vulnerability requires user interaction, meaning an attacker must convince a victim to open a malicious file to trigger the flaw. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 5.5 reflects a local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and user interaction required (UI:R). The impact is limited to confidentiality (C:H), with no impact on integrity (I:N) or availability (A:N). No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and Adobe has not yet released patches. The vulnerability affects all versions up to 1.1.1, and the plugin is commonly used in Adobe software suites to handle various file formats. This vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks, especially in environments where sensitive documents are frequently exchanged or processed.

For European organizations, the primary impact is the potential exposure of sensitive information residing in memory during file processing. This could include intellectual property, personal data protected under GDPR, or credentials used by the affected application. Although the vulnerability does not allow code execution or system compromise, the confidentiality breach could facilitate further attacks such as phishing, identity theft, or corporate espionage. Industries such as finance, government, legal, and healthcare, which rely heavily on document processing and handle sensitive data, are particularly at risk. The requirement for user interaction reduces the likelihood of mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted spear-phishing or social engineering attacks. The absence of patches increases the window of exposure, making timely mitigation critical. Additionally, the vulnerability could undermine trust in document handling workflows and compliance with data protection regulations.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Restrict and monitor the sources of files opened with Adobe Format Plugins, especially from untrusted or external origins. 2) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files and implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to reduce malicious file delivery. 3) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for anomalous file access patterns or memory disclosures related to Adobe applications. 4) Use application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate Adobe Format Plugins and limit the impact of potential exploits. 5) Regularly audit and inventory software versions to identify and prioritize vulnerable instances of Adobe Format Plugins. 6) Prepare to deploy patches promptly once Adobe releases updates addressing this vulnerability. 7) Consider disabling or limiting the use of the affected plugins if feasible until a patch is available. 8) Implement data loss prevention (DLP) solutions to detect and prevent unauthorized exfiltration of sensitive information that could result from exploitation.