CVE-2025-49526: Out-of-Bounds Write Vulnerability in Illustrator Leading to Arbitrary Code Execution

Overview

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, new vulnerabilities emerge continuously, and CVE-2025-49526 is a prime example. This serious vulnerability affects Illustrator versions 28.7.6, 29.5.1, and earlier. It’s an out-of-bounds write vulnerability that could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it can potentially lead to system compromise or data leakage, posing a significant risk to both individuals and businesses using the affected Illustrator versions.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-49526
Severity: High (7.8 CVSS Score)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Arbitrary code execution leading to potential system compromise or data leakage

Affected Products

Product | Affected Versions

Illustrator | 28.7.6 and earlier
Illustrator | 29.5.1 and earlier

How the Exploit Works

The CVE-2025-49526 vulnerability is a classic example of an out-of-bounds write vulnerability. This type of vulnerability occurs when the software writes data outside the bounds of allocated memory. It can lead to the corruption of relevant memory and potentially to arbitrary code execution. In this case, an attacker could craft a malicious file which, when opened by a victim, exploits the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. This could potentially lead to a full system compromise or data leakage.

Conceptual Example Code

To illustrate how this vulnerability might be exploited, consider the following conceptual example. An attacker crafts an Illustrator file that contains a malicious payload designed to exploit the vulnerability. Note that this is a conceptual example and does not represent a real exploit.

def create_malicious_file():
data = "..."  # Data that triggers the out-of-bounds write
exploit = "..."  # Exploit code to execute when the vulnerability is triggered
file = open("malicious.ai", "wb")
file.write(data + exploit)
file.close()
create_malicious_file()

In this example, the create_malicious_file function writes data that triggers the out-of-bounds write, followed by the exploit code to execute once the vulnerability is triggered. The result is a malicious Illustrator file that, when opened, could exploit the vulnerability and execute the arbitrary code.

Mitigation Guidance

To mitigate this vulnerability, users are advised to apply the vendor patch as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, the use of a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as temporary mitigation, helping to detect and block attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Regular monitoring of security advisories and prompt application of security patches are always recommended practices in maintaining a secure environment.