CVE-2022-23202 is a vulnerability classified as an Uncontrolled Search Path Element (CWE-427) affecting the Adobe Creative Cloud desktop component, specifically version 2.7.0.13 and earlier. This vulnerability arises because the application improperly handles the search path for dynamic link libraries (DLLs), allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL in the same directory as the installer. When the Creative Cloud desktop component loads DLLs, it may inadvertently load the malicious DLL instead of the legitimate one. This can lead to arbitrary code execution in the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, as the victim must download and place the malicious DLL in the targeted folder. The attack complexity is high because the attacker must deliver the malicious DLL to the same folder as the installer, which typically requires some form of social engineering or prior access to the victim's system or network. There are no known exploits in the wild reported, and no official patches or updates have been linked in the provided information. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by potentially allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code, which could lead to data theft, system manipulation, or disruption of services. However, the attack vector is limited by the need for user interaction and the complexity of delivering the malicious DLL to the correct location.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk primarily to users of Adobe Creative Cloud desktop applications. Given the widespread use of Adobe Creative Cloud in creative industries, marketing, media, and design sectors across Europe, exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially compromising sensitive intellectual property or customer data. The impact is heightened in environments where users have elevated privileges or where Creative Cloud is integrated with other critical systems. However, the requirement for user interaction and the complexity of the attack vector reduce the likelihood of widespread exploitation. Organizations with lax endpoint security or insufficient user awareness training may be more vulnerable. Additionally, if exploited, this vulnerability could serve as a foothold for further lateral movement within corporate networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests that the threat is not currently active but should be addressed proactively to prevent future attacks.

1. Update Adobe Creative Cloud: Although no specific patch links are provided, organizations should verify with Adobe for any updates or patches beyond version 2.7.0.13 and apply them promptly. 2. Restrict write permissions: Limit user permissions to prevent placing or executing unauthorized DLLs in application directories, especially the folders used by Adobe Creative Cloud installers. 3. Implement application whitelisting: Use application control solutions to restrict execution of untrusted DLLs and executables, particularly in directories associated with Adobe software. 4. User training: Educate users about the risks of downloading and placing files from untrusted sources, emphasizing the dangers of social engineering attacks that could lead to DLL planting. 5. Monitor file system changes: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual file creation or modification in directories related to Adobe Creative Cloud. 6. Network segmentation: Isolate systems running Adobe Creative Cloud to limit potential lateral movement if exploitation occurs. 7. Use of integrity checking: Employ tools that verify the integrity of DLLs loaded by Adobe Creative Cloud to detect unauthorized modifications or additions. 8. Incident response readiness: Prepare to investigate and remediate any suspicious activity related to Adobe Creative Cloud DLL loading behaviors.