CVE-2021-42731 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Adobe InDesign versions 16.4 and earlier are affected by a Buffer Overflow vulnerability that could lead to remote code execution.

Understanding CVE-2021-42731

What is CVE-2021-42731?

Adobe InDesign versions 16.4 and earlier are susceptible to a Buffer Overflow vulnerability when processing a maliciously crafted file. An attacker could exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

The Impact of CVE-2021-42731

This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, classifying it as a high-severity issue with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. An unauthenticated attacker could achieve remote code execution with user interaction required.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-42731

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a Buffer Overflow in Adobe InDesign, allowing an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: InDesign
Vendor: Adobe
Versions Affected: 16.4 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Local
Attack Complexity: Low
User Interaction: Required
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe InDesign to the latest version to mitigate the vulnerability.
Avoid opening untrusted or suspicious files received from unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security patches and updates for all software installed on your systems.

Patching and Updates

Adobe has released a security update to address this vulnerability in InDesign.