Overview
CVE-2025-43558 is a critical vulnerability that primarily targets InDesign Desktop versions ID20.2, ID19.5.3, and earlier. It comprises an out-of-bounds write vulnerability, potentially resulting in arbitrary code execution within the user’s context. This exploit poses a significant threat to users as it could lead to system compromise or data leakage, turning a seemingly innocuous file into a dangerous weapon. Given its potential impact and severity, understanding and mitigating this vulnerability should be a priority for all users of the affected InDesign versions.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-43558
Severity: High (7.8 CVSS Score)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Arbitrary code execution, potential system compromise, and data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
InDesign Desktop | ID20.2
InDesign Desktop | ID19.5.3 and earlier versions
How the Exploit Works
The vulnerability CVE-2025-43558 occurs due to insufficient boundary checks when handling certain file inputs in Adobe InDesign. This oversight allows an attacker to write data past the allocated memory buffer (an “out-of-bounds” write), which can lead to a memory corruption. If a user opens a maliciously crafted file, the attacker can exploit this corruption to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user.
Conceptual Example Code
While a specific exploit code for this vulnerability is not available, the below pseudocode illustrates the conceptual working of an out-of-bounds write vulnerability:
// Pseudocode illustrating the concept of an out-of-bounds write
char buffer[10];
// Assume that the attacker can control the value of 'index' and 'value'
int index = getUserInput();
char value = getUserInput();
// If 'index' is greater than 9, this write is out-of-bounds
buffer[index] = value;In this pseudocode, if the attacker provides an ‘index’ value greater than 9, the write will occur out-of-bounds, leading to memory corruption.
Mitigation Guidance
Users are advised to apply the vendor-released patch to fix this vulnerability. If the patch is not immediately available, implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as a temporary mitigation measure. Regularly updating software, avoiding untrusted files, and using reliable security solutions can also help prevent the exploitation of such vulnerabilities.