CVE-2022-3197 is a high-severity use-after-free vulnerability identified in the PDF processing component of Google Chrome versions prior to 105.0.5195.125. This vulnerability arises when Chrome improperly manages memory related to PDF handling, leading to a use-after-free condition. Specifically, an attacker can craft a malicious PDF file that, when opened in a vulnerable Chrome browser, triggers heap corruption. This corruption can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code remotely, potentially allowing an attacker to take control of the affected system. The vulnerability does not require any privileges or prior authentication but does require user interaction in the form of opening a malicious PDF file within Chrome. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and user interaction required. Although no known exploits in the wild have been reported at the time of publication, the nature of the vulnerability and its high severity make it a critical concern for users and organizations relying on Chrome for PDF viewing. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-416 (Use After Free), a common and dangerous memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Google Chrome as a primary web browser across enterprises, government agencies, and critical infrastructure sectors. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and disruption of services by enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Given the PDF format's ubiquity in business communications, attackers could deliver malicious PDFs via email, web downloads, or document sharing platforms, increasing the attack surface. The compromise of endpoints could facilitate lateral movement within networks, data exfiltration, or deployment of ransomware, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational assets. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious PDF) means phishing and social engineering remain key vectors, which are prevalent attack methods in Europe. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as threat actors often develop exploits rapidly after vulnerability disclosure. Organizations in sectors with high regulatory requirements for data protection (e.g., finance, healthcare, public sector) face increased compliance risks if exploited.

European organizations should prioritize updating Google Chrome to version 105.0.5195.125 or later, where this vulnerability is patched. Given the lack of patch links in the provided data, organizations should verify updates directly from official Google Chrome release channels. Additionally, implement strict email filtering and sandboxing to detect and block malicious PDFs before reaching end users. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of identifying anomalous behaviors related to memory corruption or code execution attempts. User awareness training should emphasize the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected PDF attachments, especially from unknown sources. Network segmentation can limit the impact of a compromised endpoint. Organizations should also consider disabling or restricting PDF viewing within browsers where feasible, using dedicated PDF readers with robust security controls. Monitoring threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploits related to CVE-2022-3197 is recommended to enable rapid response. Finally, enforce the principle of least privilege on user accounts to reduce potential damage from exploitation.