CVE-2026-21328

7.8

Adobe · After Effects

Adobe After Effects versions 25.6 and earlier are susceptible to an out-of-bounds write vulnerability that allows for arbitrary code execution when a user opens a specially crafted file.

Executive summary

Adobe After Effects contains an out-of-bounds write vulnerability that could allow an attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution on a victim's system.

Vulnerability

This vulnerability is an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787) flaw that occurs when processing malformed files. Successful exploitation requires the user to interact with the system by opening a malicious file, which then executes code in the context of the current user.

Business impact

The ability to execute arbitrary code poses a severe risk to organizational security, potentially leading to full system compromise or the exfiltration of sensitive creative assets. With a CVSS score of 7.8, this high-severity vulnerability necessitates prompt attention, as successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access and significant operational disruption.

Remediation

Immediate Action: Update Adobe After Effects to version 25.6.4, 26.0, or later to apply the necessary security fixes.

Proactive Monitoring: Monitor workstation endpoint logs for unusual process spawning activities or unexpected file handling errors associated with After Effects.

Compensating Controls: Implement strict email and file-download policies to prevent users from opening untrusted or unsolicited project files from unknown sources.

Exploitation status

Public Exploit Available: Unknown

Analyst recommendation

Given the potential for arbitrary code execution, this vulnerability represents a significant risk to end-user workstations. Organizations should prioritize updating all instances of Adobe After Effects to the patched versions provided by the vendor to eliminate this attack vector.

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