CVE-2026-21301 identifies a NULL Pointer Dereference vulnerability (CWE-476) in Adobe Substance3D - Modeler versions 1.22.4 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the application attempts to dereference a null pointer due to insufficient validation of input data, specifically when processing maliciously crafted files. The result is an application crash leading to denial-of-service (DoS), impacting the availability of the software. Exploitation requires user interaction, as the victim must open a malicious file, and no elevated privileges or authentication are necessary. The CVSS v3.1 score of 5.5 reflects a medium severity, with an attack vector of local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), and user interaction required (UI:R). The vulnerability does not affect confidentiality or integrity but solely impacts availability. There are currently no known exploits in the wild, and Adobe has not yet released a patch. The vulnerability is particularly relevant to users of Substance3D - Modeler, a 3D modeling tool widely used in creative and design industries. The lack of patch and the requirement for user interaction somewhat limit the risk, but the potential for disruption remains significant in environments relying heavily on this software for production workflows.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2026-21301 is the potential denial-of-service of Adobe Substance3D - Modeler, which could disrupt creative workflows, delay project timelines, and cause productivity losses. Organizations in digital media, game development, animation, and industrial design sectors are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on this software. While the vulnerability does not expose sensitive data or allow unauthorized code execution, the forced application crashes could lead to operational downtime and increased support costs. In tightly scheduled production environments, even short disruptions can have cascading effects on deliverables and client commitments. Additionally, repeated exploitation attempts could erode user confidence in the software’s stability. Given the user interaction requirement, social engineering or phishing campaigns could be used to trick users into opening malicious files, increasing the risk vector. The absence of a patch means organizations must rely on interim controls to mitigate risk until Adobe releases a fix.

To mitigate CVE-2026-21301, European organizations should implement several specific measures beyond generic advice: 1) Enforce strict file handling policies by restricting the opening of files from untrusted or unknown sources within Substance3D - Modeler. 2) Educate users on the risks of opening files from unsolicited emails or downloads, emphasizing the need for caution with 3D model files. 3) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate Substance3D - Modeler processes, limiting the impact of crashes. 4) Monitor application logs and system stability metrics to detect abnormal crashes indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Maintain up-to-date backups of critical project files to minimize disruption from unexpected application failures. 6) Engage with Adobe support channels to track patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 7) Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying suspicious file interactions related to this vulnerability. These targeted actions will reduce the likelihood and impact of exploitation while maintaining operational continuity.