This threat involves a targeted campaign against Ukrainian financial institutions using malicious EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) files. EPS files are a graphics file format that can contain embedded PostScript code, which can be exploited to execute arbitrary code or deliver malicious payloads when opened in vulnerable applications. The campaign leverages these files as a vector to compromise financial organizations, potentially aiming to disrupt operations, steal sensitive financial data, or gain persistent access to critical systems. Although detailed technical specifics such as the exact exploitation mechanism or payload are not provided, the use of EPS files suggests attackers exploit vulnerabilities in document or graphic processing software that handles these files. The campaign was identified and reported by CIRCL (Computer Incident Response Center Luxembourg) as an OSINT observation dating back to 2017, targeting Ukrainian financial institutions. The threat level is noted as low, with no known exploits in the wild at the time of reporting, indicating limited immediate risk or sophistication. However, the targeting of financial institutions highlights the strategic intent to impact critical economic infrastructure.

For European organizations, particularly those with financial ties or operations linked to Ukraine, this threat underscores the risk of supply chain or partner-targeted attacks that could indirectly affect their operations. While the direct impact may be limited to Ukrainian financial institutions, the potential for lateral movement or data exfiltration could expose sensitive financial information or disrupt financial transactions involving European entities. Additionally, if similar EPS file vulnerabilities exist in widely used document processing tools across Europe, there is a risk of broader exploitation. The campaign’s low severity suggests limited immediate impact, but the financial sector’s critical nature means even low-level threats warrant attention to prevent escalation or replication in other regions.

European financial institutions and related organizations should implement strict email and document handling policies to mitigate risks from malicious EPS files. This includes disabling or restricting the processing of EPS files in email clients and document viewers, employing advanced email filtering to detect and quarantine suspicious attachments, and using sandboxing technologies to analyze files before allowing user access. Regularly updating and patching all software that processes EPS or PostScript files is essential to close known vulnerabilities. Additionally, organizations should conduct user awareness training focused on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected attachments, especially from unknown sources. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual file execution or network traffic can help detect and contain potential compromises early. Given the campaign’s targeting of financial institutions, enhanced threat intelligence sharing within European financial sector Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs) is recommended to improve detection and response capabilities.