CVE-2026-21321 is an integer overflow or wraparound vulnerability (CWE-190) affecting Adobe After Effects versions 25.6 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles integer values, causing them to overflow or wrap around, which can lead to memory corruption. An attacker can craft a malicious After Effects project file that, when opened by a user, triggers this overflow condition. This can result in arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user, allowing the attacker to potentially execute malicious payloads, alter files, or disrupt system operations. The vulnerability requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a malicious file, and does not require any prior authentication or elevated privileges. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity due to the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with low attack complexity and no privileges required. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a significant risk for users of Adobe After Effects. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for mitigation through other means.

For European organizations, especially those in media, advertising, film production, and digital content creation that rely heavily on Adobe After Effects, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, resulting in data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of critical creative workflows. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, sensitive project files and proprietary content could be compromised or manipulated. The availability impact could lead to downtime or loss of productivity. Since exploitation requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns targeting creative teams could be a vector. The risk extends to contractors and freelancers who often exchange project files. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. Organizations with less mature endpoint security or user training programs are particularly vulnerable.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels closely for patches and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict the opening of After Effects project files from untrusted or unknown sources. 3. Implement strict email filtering and sandboxing to detect and block malicious attachments targeting creative teams. 4. Educate users, especially creative professionals, about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous behaviors related to After Effects processes. 6. Use application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized code. 7. Maintain regular backups of critical project files to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8. Consider isolating creative workstations from sensitive networks to limit lateral movement if exploitation occurs. 9. Review and tighten user privileges to minimize the impact of code execution under user context. 10. Conduct simulated phishing campaigns to raise awareness and test user readiness.