CVE-2022-24098 is a vulnerability identified in Adobe Photoshop versions 22.5.6 and earlier, as well as 23.2.2 and earlier. The issue stems from improper input validation (CWE-20) when parsing PCX image files. Specifically, Photoshop fails to adequately validate the contents of a PCX file before processing it, which can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires that a user opens a maliciously crafted PCX file, which triggers the vulnerability. This means that the attack vector relies on user interaction, typically through social engineering or delivery of a malicious file via email, download, or other file-sharing methods. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or authentication to exploit, but the impact is limited to the permissions of the user running Photoshop. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of this analysis, and no official patches or updates are linked in the provided information, though Adobe typically addresses such issues in security updates. The vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to system compromise, data theft, or further malware deployment if successfully exploited.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for entities relying heavily on Adobe Photoshop for creative, marketing, or design workflows. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to install malware, steal sensitive information, or move laterally within a network. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, phishing or spear-phishing campaigns targeting employees who frequently handle image files could be an effective attack vector. Organizations in sectors such as media, advertising, publishing, and design agencies are particularly at risk. Additionally, if Photoshop is used on systems with access to sensitive corporate resources, the compromise could extend beyond the local machine. The medium severity rating reflects the need for user interaction and the limitation of the attack scope to the current user's privileges, but the potential for escalation or data exfiltration remains a concern. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits over time.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Ensure all Adobe Photoshop installations are updated to the latest available versions beyond 22.5.6 and 23.2.2, as Adobe regularly releases security patches addressing such vulnerabilities. 2) Implement strict email and file filtering to block or quarantine PCX files, especially from untrusted sources, reducing the risk of malicious file delivery. 3) Educate users about the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected image files, emphasizing caution with PCX files which are less commonly used and may be suspicious. 4) Employ application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential code execution within Photoshop. 5) Monitor endpoint security solutions for unusual behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected process launches or network connections originating from Photoshop. 6) Review and restrict user privileges to minimize the potential damage from code execution under user context. 7) Consider disabling support for PCX file formats in Photoshop if not required for business operations, thereby removing the attack vector entirely.