CVE-2026-21351 is a Use After Free (CWE-416) vulnerability identified in Adobe After Effects, affecting versions 25.6 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the application improperly manages memory, freeing an object while it is still in use, which can lead to arbitrary code execution. An attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious After Effects project file that, when opened by a user, triggers the use-after-free condition. This allows the attacker to execute code within the context of the current user, potentially leading to full system compromise depending on user privileges. The vulnerability requires user interaction, specifically opening the malicious file, which limits remote exploitation but still poses a significant risk in environments where untrusted files may be received or shared. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is published and should be considered a serious threat. Adobe has not yet released a patch, so users must rely on interim mitigations. This vulnerability is particularly relevant to creative professionals and organizations relying on Adobe After Effects for video production and post-processing workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2026-21351 can be significant, especially in sectors such as media, entertainment, advertising, and digital content creation where Adobe After Effects is widely used. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive project data, intellectual property, or deploy malware within corporate networks. This could result in data breaches, disruption of production pipelines, and potential reputational damage. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, phishing or social engineering campaigns could be used to deliver malicious files. The compromise of workstations could also serve as a foothold for lateral movement within enterprise networks. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces may face increased risk if users open malicious files outside controlled environments. The high CVSS score indicates a serious threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, warranting immediate attention.

1. Monitor Adobe’s official channels for patches and apply updates immediately once available. 2. Until patches are released, restrict the opening of After Effects project files from untrusted or unknown sources. 3. Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to block potentially malicious files. 4. Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files, emphasizing the need for caution with After Effects project files. 5. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavior-based detection to identify suspicious activities related to memory corruption exploits. 6. Use application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized software and scripts. 7. Segment networks to reduce the impact of a compromised workstation and prevent lateral movement. 8. Regularly back up critical project files and maintain offline copies to ensure recovery in case of compromise. 9. Consider sandboxing or virtualizing environments where untrusted files must be opened to contain potential exploitation.