CVE-2022-24094 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Adobe After Effects, specifically affecting versions 22.2 and earlier, as well as 18.4.4 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles certain input data, leading to a buffer overflow on the stack (CWE-121). An attacker can exploit this flaw by crafting a malicious After Effects project file or related media file that, when opened by a user, triggers the overflow. This can result in arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user, potentially allowing the attacker to execute malicious code, manipulate files, or escalate privileges depending on the user's rights. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a malicious file, which limits the attack vector to targeted social engineering or delivery through compromised or maliciously crafted files. There are no known exploits in the wild reported to date, and no official patches or updates have been linked in the provided information. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121, indicating a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario, which is a well-understood and critical class of memory corruption bugs. The absence of a CVSS score necessitates an independent severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, particularly for those in media production, advertising, film, and digital content creation sectors where Adobe After Effects is widely used. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive project files and intellectual property. If an attacker gains foothold through this vulnerability, lateral movement within the network could be possible, especially if the compromised user has elevated privileges or access to critical systems. The requirement for user interaction reduces the risk of widespread automated exploitation but does not eliminate targeted spear-phishing or supply chain attack risks. Additionally, compromised systems could be used as a foothold for further attacks, including ransomware deployment or data exfiltration, impacting business continuity and reputation. The vulnerability's medium severity rating suggests a moderate risk, but the actual impact depends on the deployment environment, user privileges, and existing security controls.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation strategies: 1) Immediate audit of Adobe After Effects versions in use to identify vulnerable installations; 2) Restrict usage of After Effects to trusted users and environments, minimizing exposure to untrusted files; 3) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of After Effects and contain potential exploits; 4) Enhance user awareness training focusing on the risks of opening files from untrusted sources, emphasizing spear-phishing and social engineering tactics; 5) Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected process launches or memory anomalies; 6) Utilize endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting buffer overflow exploitation patterns; 7) Coordinate with Adobe for timely patch deployment once official updates become available; 8) Implement strict file validation and scanning policies on incoming files, especially those related to media projects; 9) Consider network segmentation to isolate systems running After Effects from critical infrastructure to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.