CVE-2025-7096 is a critical security vulnerability identified in Comodo Internet Security Premium version 12.3.4.8162. The flaw resides in the Manifest File Handler component, specifically within the cis_update_x64.xml file. The vulnerability is due to improper validation of the integrity check value, which is a security mechanism designed to ensure that files or updates have not been tampered with before execution or installation. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can remotely manipulate the integrity check process, potentially allowing malicious code or updates to be accepted as legitimate by the security software. This could lead to unauthorized code execution or compromise of the protected system. The attack complexity is rated as high, indicating that exploitation requires significant skill or resources, and no user interaction or authentication is needed. The vulnerability does not require local access and can be triggered remotely, increasing its risk profile. Despite the critical severity and public disclosure of the exploit, the vendor has not responded or provided a patch, leaving systems running the affected version exposed. The CVSS 4.0 score of 9.2 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with the vulnerability allowing an attacker to bypass security controls remotely without user interaction.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying on Comodo Internet Security Premium 12.3.4.8162 for endpoint protection. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to bypass security defenses, deploy malware, or gain persistent access to critical systems. This could result in data breaches, disruption of business operations, and compromise of sensitive information. Given the critical nature of the vulnerability and the lack of vendor response, organizations may face prolonged exposure. The impact is particularly severe for sectors with high security requirements such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, where compromise could have cascading effects on privacy, regulatory compliance, and operational continuity.

Since no official patch or vendor response is available, European organizations should take immediate proactive steps: 1) Temporarily discontinue use of Comodo Internet Security Premium 12.3.4.8162 and consider switching to alternative endpoint protection solutions until a patch is released. 2) Implement network-level controls to restrict inbound and outbound traffic to and from systems running the vulnerable software, especially blocking access to update servers or related services that could be exploited. 3) Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual activity indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected update processes or integrity check failures. 4) Employ application whitelisting and strict execution policies to prevent unauthorized code execution. 5) Conduct thorough vulnerability scanning and penetration testing focused on this vulnerability to identify potential exposure. 6) Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from any compromise. 7) Engage with Comodo support channels persistently for updates and advisories.