CVE-2009-3576 in Autodesk Softimage Xsi
Summary
by MITRE
Autodesk Softimage 7.x and Softimage XSI 6.x allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code via a scene package containing a Scene Table of Contents (aka .scntoc) file with a Script_Content element, as demonstrated by code that loads the WScript.Shell ActiveX control.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3576 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Autodesk Softimage versions 6.x and 7.x that stems from inadequate input validation within the scene package processing mechanism. This vulnerability specifically targets the Scene Table of Contents file format which is used to organize and manage scene elements within the Softimage application environment. The flaw exists in how the application parses .scntoc files that contain Script_Content elements, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of the running application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the application's trust model where it automatically processes and executes embedded script content without proper sanitization or validation of the script content. When a malicious .scntoc file is loaded, the application's parser encounters the Script_Content element and proceeds to execute the embedded JavaScript code without sufficient security controls. This particular exploit demonstrates the execution of code that loads the WScript.Shell ActiveX control, which provides access to system-level functionality including command execution capabilities. The vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to the improper handling of script content within application frameworks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to gain complete control over systems running vulnerable versions of Softimage. The ability to execute arbitrary JavaScript code through a scene package file means that an attacker could potentially perform actions such as downloading and executing additional malware, establishing persistent backdoors, or exfiltrating sensitive data from the compromised system. The remote nature of the attack means that an attacker could exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the network without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Softimage is used for animation and visual effects production.
This vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and execution phases of cyber attacks. The technique of using malicious scene packages for code execution corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1203, "Exploitation for Client Execution," and T1059, "Command and Scripting Interpreter." The use of ActiveX controls for privilege escalation and system manipulation demonstrates how attackers can leverage trusted application components to bypass security controls. Organizations using Autodesk Softimage in production environments face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or compromised collaboration platforms where scene files might be shared.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-3576 should focus on immediate patching of affected software versions, as Autodesk released security updates to address this specific vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable systems to untrusted networks or users. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of arbitrary scripts within the Softimage environment can provide defense-in-depth protection. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of vulnerable software within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in application frameworks that handle user-provided content, emphasizing the need for proper input validation, output encoding, and least privilege execution models to prevent similar issues in future software development cycles.