CVE-2026-48359 Adobe CVE debrief

Who should care

Users of Adobe Experience Manager versions 6.5.25.0 and earlier, as well as AEM Cloud Service users up to version 2020.5.0, should review and apply the necessary patches to prevent potential arbitrary code execution. Security teams and administrators responsible for Adobe Experience Manager installations should prioritize patching due to the critical severity of the vulnerability.

Technical summary

Adobe Experience Manager is affected by an Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference ('XXE') vulnerability. This vulnerability could result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. A low-privileged attacker could exploit this vulnerability to read sensitive files, potentially gaining elevated access or control over the victim's account or session. The vulnerability has a critical CVSS score of 9.6. It is recommended that users of Adobe Experience Manager versions 6.5.25.0 and earlier, as well as AEM Cloud Service users up to version 2020.5.0, review and apply the necessary patches to prevent potential arbitrary code execution. Exploitation of this issue does not require user interaction.

Defensive priority

High priority should be given to patching Adobe Experience Manager installations, as the vulnerability is critical with a CVSS score of 9.6 and could lead to significant compromise if exploited.

Recommended defensive actions

• Apply the patches provided by Adobe as per the advisory APSB26-74
• Review and update Adobe Experience Manager installations to ensure they are running a version that is not vulnerable
• Implement compensating controls such as monitoring for suspicious activity related to XML external entity references
• Consider restricting access to sensitive areas of the system to reduce the potential impact of exploitation
• Confirm whether affected product deployments exist in managed environments and assign an owner for follow-up
• Review the supplied official advisory or CVE record to validate affected scope, severity, and vendor guidance
• Plan vendor-supported updates or mitigations through normal change control where exposure is confirmed

Evidence notes

The CVE record and NVD detail provide information on the vulnerability, its impact, and affected versions of Adobe Experience Manager. Vendor advisory APSB26-74 provides mitigation and patch information. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.6, indicating critical severity. There is no user interaction required for exploitation. A low-privileged attacker could exploit this vulnerability to read sensitive files.

Official resources