CVE-2025-49564: Stack-Based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability in Illustrator

Overview

The critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-49564 is a stack-based buffer overflow that affects Illustrator versions 28.7.8, 29.6.1, and earlier. This vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user, leading to potential system compromise or data leakage. The exploit requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a malicious file. Given the widespread use of Illustrator in various industries and sectors, this vulnerability can have severe implications if not promptly addressed.

Vulnerability Summary

CVE ID: CVE-2025-49564
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

Product | Affected Versions

Illustrator | 28.7.8, 29.6.1 and earlier versions

How the Exploit Works

The vulnerability resides in the handling of certain file types within the affected Illustrator versions. Specifically, when a user opens a maliciously crafted file, the software fails to properly manage its memory operations, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow. This overflow condition can be exploited to inject and execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. Consequently, an attacker could manipulate the software’s operation or even take control of the affected system.

Conceptual Example Code

Here’s a conceptual example showing how an attacker could potentially craft a malicious file to exploit the vulnerability. It’s important to note that this is a simplified representation and real-world attacks would likely be more complex.

# Create a malicious file with oversized content
with open('malicious.eps', 'w') as f:
# EPS header
f.write("%!PS-Adobe-3.0 EPSF-3.0\n")
# Oversized content triggering the buffer overflow
f.write("A" * 1024 * 1024 * 10)  # 10 MB of 'A's
# Placeholder for arbitrary code
f.write("\x90" * 100)  # NOP sled
f.write("<malicious code>")  # Insert malicious code here

The malicious file, when opened in a vulnerable Illustrator version, would trigger the buffer overflow, allowing the arbitrary code to be executed.

Mitigation

While the vendor is expected to release a patch to fix this vulnerability, as an interim solution, users can deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. It’s also recommended to avoid opening files from untrusted sources. Regularly updating your software to the latest versions can further ensure that you’re protected from known vulnerabilities.