CVE-2025-47099: Adobe InCopy Heap-Based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability
Adobe has released a security advisory addressing a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in InCopy. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. User interaction is required to trigger this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
- CVE ID: CVE-2025-47099
- Description: Adobe InCopy versions 20.3, 19.5.3 and earlier are affected by a Heap-based Buffer Overflow vulnerability that could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Exploitation of this issue requires user interaction in that a victim must open a malicious file.
- CVSS Score: 7.8 (High)
- CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
- CVSS Vector Explanation: This vulnerability has a high base score because, while it requires local access (AV:L) and user interaction (UI:R), a successful exploit can compromise confidentiality (C:H), integrity (I:H), and availability (A:H) on the affected system. The attack complexity is low (AC:L) and no privileges are required (PR:N) after initial access.
- Exploit Requirements: A user must open a specially crafted, malicious file within Adobe InCopy.
- Affected Vendor: Adobe
- Affected Product: InCopy
- Affected Versions: 20.3, 19.5.3 and earlier
- CWE: CWE-122 - Heap-based Buffer Overflow
- CWE Explanation: A heap-based buffer overflow occurs when a program writes data beyond the allocated memory region in the heap, potentially overwriting critical data structures and leading to code execution.
Timeline of Events
- Reported: Unknown
- Published: 2025-07-08
- Advisory Released: 2025-07-08 (https://helpx.adobe.com/security/products/incopy/apsb25-59.html)
Exploitability & Real-World Risk
While requiring user interaction, the potential for arbitrary code execution makes this a significant vulnerability. An attacker could craft a seemingly benign InCopy file and trick a user into opening it, leading to complete system compromise. This could be part of a targeted attack or a broader phishing campaign.
Recommendations
- Apply the Patch: Update to the latest version of Adobe InCopy as soon as possible. Refer to the Adobe security advisory for specific patched versions.
- Exercise Caution: Be extremely cautious when opening InCopy files from untrusted sources. Verify the sender and the file's origin before opening.
- Security Awareness Training: Educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown or suspicious sources.
Technical Insight
Heap-based buffer overflows occur when the program writes past the allocated memory on the heap. This can be triggered when processing complex file formats with insufficient bounds checking. By carefully crafting a malicious InCopy file, an attacker can overwrite critical data structures and inject malicious code that executes when the file is opened.
Credit to Researcher(s)
Details regarding the researcher who discovered this vulnerability are not currently available in the provided information. Refer to the Adobe Security Advisory for acknowledgement.
References
Tags
#AdobeInCopy #BufferOverflow #RCE #CVE-2025-47099 #Security
Summary: CVE-2025-47099 is a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Adobe InCopy versions 20.3, 19.5.3 and earlier. Exploitation requires a user to open a malicious file, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. Users are advised to update to the latest version and exercise caution when opening untrusted files.
CVE ID: CVE-2025-47099
Risk Analysis: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to complete system compromise, including data theft, malware installation, and denial of service. The business impact could include data breaches, financial loss, and reputational damage.
Recommendation: Update Adobe InCopy to the latest version as soon as possible. Exercise caution when opening InCopy files from untrusted sources. Enable security awareness training to educate users about the risks of opening files from unknown sources.
Timeline
- 2025-07-08: Vulnerability published and Adobe security advisory released.