CVE-2022-35711 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) affecting Adobe ColdFusion, specifically versions Update 14 and earlier as well as Update 4 and earlier. ColdFusion is a widely used web application development platform that enables rapid development and deployment of web applications. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of input data in the ColdFusion server, where a crafted network packet can trigger a buffer overflow condition on the heap. This overflow can corrupt memory and potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the ColdFusion server process. Notably, exploitation does not require any user interaction, making it possible for attackers to remotely compromise vulnerable servers by simply sending maliciously crafted network packets. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of ColdFusion, although the exact affected subversions are unspecified. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting, and no official patches or updates have been linked in the provided information. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on October 14, 2022, and has been enriched by CISA, indicating recognition by US cybersecurity authorities. The lack of user interaction requirement and the ability to execute arbitrary code remotely make this a significant security concern for organizations running vulnerable ColdFusion instances, as it could lead to full system compromise or unauthorized access to sensitive data.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-35711 could be substantial, particularly for those relying on Adobe ColdFusion for critical web applications and services. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to manipulate data, disrupt services, or establish persistent footholds within corporate networks. This could result in data breaches, service outages, and potential lateral movement to other internal systems. Given ColdFusion's role in web application hosting, the vulnerability could also be leveraged to deploy web shells or malware, facilitating further attacks such as ransomware or espionage. The medium severity rating may underestimate the potential impact in environments where ColdFusion servers are internet-facing or host sensitive applications. Additionally, the absence of required user interaction and the ability to trigger the vulnerability remotely increase the risk of automated exploitation attempts. European organizations in sectors such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure that utilize ColdFusion should consider this vulnerability a serious threat to their operational security and data integrity.

1. Immediate action should include identifying and inventorying all Adobe ColdFusion instances within the organization, focusing on versions Update 14 and earlier and Update 4 and earlier. 2. Apply the latest security patches or updates from Adobe as soon as they become available; if no patches are currently released, monitor Adobe advisories closely. 3. Implement network-level protections such as Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block anomalous or malformed packets targeting ColdFusion servers. 4. Restrict network access to ColdFusion servers by limiting exposure to only trusted IP addresses and internal networks where possible, reducing the attack surface. 5. Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) with signatures or heuristics tuned to detect exploitation attempts related to heap-based buffer overflows in ColdFusion. 6. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on ColdFusion applications to identify and remediate potential exploitation vectors. 7. Harden ColdFusion server configurations by disabling unnecessary services and features, enforcing least privilege principles for service accounts, and enabling detailed logging to facilitate incident detection and response. 8. Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing potential ColdFusion compromises, including steps for containment, eradication, and recovery. These measures go beyond generic advice by emphasizing proactive network controls, detailed asset management, and tailored detection capabilities.