CVE-2021-21098 Adobe InDesign PCX file parsing out-of-bounds write vulnerability could lead to remote code execution

High 8.8 Published 28 Jun 2021 Updated 23 Apr 2025

An attacker can achieve remote code execution by tricking a user into opening a malicious PCX file in Adobe InDesign.

Exploited in the wild: Not known
Login needed: Not needed
Attackable: Over the internet
Victim action needed: A user has to click or open something
Fix: None listed

What is CVE-2021-21098?

CVE-2021-21098 is a high-severity memory corruption vulnerability in Adobe Indesign, published on 28 Jun 2021. An attacker can exploit it over the internet without logging in, and only if a user opens a file or follows a link.

Official description

Adobe InDesign version 16.0 (and earlier) is affected by an Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability when parsing a crafted file. An unauthenticated attacker could leverage this vulnerability to achieve remote 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.

Weakness: CWE-787

Which versions are affected by CVE-2021-21098?

It affects 1 product.

Products include Adobe Indesign.

How do I fix CVE-2021-21098?

No fix has been published for CVE-2021-21098 yet. Limit exposure of the affected software until one is available.

Upgrade to the fixed version. Memory-safe languages, compiler hardening and fuzzing prevent most new cases. More about Memory corruption.

Is CVE-2021-21098 being exploited?

There is no known exploitation of CVE-2021-21098 in the wild and no public exploit code.

All Adobe Indesign vulnerabilities

Sources

Also known as GHSA-pjj6-f92r-2c8w.