CVE-2022-28270 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability (CWE-787) affecting Adobe Photoshop versions 22.5.6 and earlier, as well as 23.2.2 and earlier. The vulnerability arises when Photoshop processes specially crafted SVG files, leading to an out-of-bounds write condition in memory. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically that the victim opens a malicious SVG file, which could be delivered via email, web download, or other file-sharing methods. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or prior authentication, but successful exploitation depends on the victim’s action. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and Adobe has not yet published official patches or mitigations at the time of this report. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability since arbitrary code execution could lead to data theft, system compromise, or denial of service. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it is primarily a client-side risk affecting users who open untrusted SVG files in Photoshop.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-28270 could be significant, particularly for industries relying heavily on Adobe Photoshop for graphic design, media production, advertising, and digital content creation. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of creative workflows. Organizations with large creative teams or agencies handling external files are at higher risk. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as an initial foothold in targeted attacks or ransomware campaigns if attackers gain code execution on user machines. Since exploitation requires user interaction, social engineering or phishing campaigns could be used to deliver malicious SVG files. The risk extends to both corporate environments and individual users within organizations, especially if endpoint protections are insufficient. The medium severity rating suggests a moderate but non-trivial risk that should be addressed promptly to avoid escalation.

1. Implement strict email and file filtering policies to block or quarantine SVG files from untrusted sources, reducing the likelihood of malicious file delivery. 2. Educate users, especially creative and design teams, about the risks of opening SVG files from unknown or suspicious origins, emphasizing caution with unsolicited attachments or downloads. 3. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring and blocking suspicious behaviors related to file parsing and code execution within Photoshop processes. 4. Restrict Photoshop usage to trusted networks and devices with up-to-date security controls to minimize exposure. 5. Monitor Adobe’s official channels for patches or security updates addressing this vulnerability and prioritize timely deployment once available. 6. Consider sandboxing or isolating Photoshop instances when handling external files to contain potential exploitation. 7. Maintain regular backups of critical data and design assets to mitigate impact in case of compromise. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on file filtering, user awareness tailored to creative teams, and proactive monitoring specific to Photoshop usage patterns.