CVE-2022-30655 is a Use-After-Free (CWE-416) vulnerability identified in Adobe InCopy, specifically affecting versions 17.2 and earlier, as well as 16.4.1 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly manages memory, allowing an attacker to exploit a freed memory region that is subsequently accessed. The consequence of this flaw is the potential for arbitrary code execution within the security context of the current user. Exploitation requires user interaction, specifically the opening of a maliciously crafted InCopy file. This means that an attacker must convince a user to open a file that triggers the vulnerability, which then leads to execution of attacker-controlled code. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges or authentication, but successful exploitation depends on social engineering or phishing techniques to deliver the malicious file. There are no known public exploits or active exploitation campaigns reported at this time. Adobe has not provided patch links in the provided data, but typically such vulnerabilities are addressed in security updates. The vulnerability impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system by allowing arbitrary code execution, which could lead to data theft, system compromise, or disruption of services. However, the requirement for user interaction and the absence of known exploits reduce the immediacy of the threat. The vulnerability is classified as medium severity, reflecting a balance between its potential impact and exploitation complexity.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-30655 can be significant, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on Adobe InCopy for editorial, publishing, and content creation workflows. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, enabling attackers to steal sensitive information, implant malware, or disrupt operations. This is especially critical for media companies, publishing houses, and marketing agencies that handle confidential client data or intellectual property. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as an initial foothold in a broader attack chain, potentially facilitating lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the user interaction requirement, phishing campaigns targeting employees are a likely attack vector, which aligns with common threat patterns in Europe. The medium severity rating suggests that while the risk is not immediate or critical, organizations should not underestimate the potential for damage, especially if combined with other vulnerabilities or social engineering tactics.

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2022-30655, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Ensure all Adobe InCopy installations are updated to the latest available version where this vulnerability is patched; if patches are not yet available, consider disabling InCopy or restricting its use to trusted users only. 2) Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to detect and block malicious files that could exploit this vulnerability. 3) Conduct targeted user awareness training focused on recognizing phishing attempts and the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious files, particularly those related to Adobe InCopy. 4) Employ application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized code and monitor for unusual process behavior originating from InCopy or related applications. 5) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to identify and respond to exploitation attempts quickly. 6) Network segmentation can limit the spread of an attacker who gains initial access via this vulnerability. 7) Regularly review and audit user privileges to minimize the impact of code execution under user context. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific exploitation vector (malicious files) and the operational context of Adobe InCopy in European organizations.