CVE-2009-3577 in 3ds Max
Summary
by MITRE
Autodesk 3D Studio Max (3DSMax) 6 through 9 and 2008 through 2010 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a .max file with a MAXScript statement that calls the DOSCommand method, related to "application callbacks."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3577 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Autodesk 3D Studio Max versions 6 through 9 and 2008 through 2010. This security issue stems from the software's improper handling of MAXScript statements within .max files, specifically when the DOSCommand method is invoked through application callbacks. The flaw exists in the application's script processing mechanism where user-supplied content is not adequately sanitized or validated before execution, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary commands on vulnerable systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the MAXScript scripting language's capability to interface with the underlying operating system through the DOSCommand method. When a malicious .max file containing crafted MAXScript code is opened by an affected version of 3DSMax, the application's callback mechanism processes the embedded DOSCommand call without proper input validation. This allows attackers to execute system commands with the privileges of the user running the application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered simply by opening a malicious file, making it a prime candidate for social engineering attacks and drive-by downloads.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations utilizing Autodesk 3D Studio Max in professional environments where file sharing occurs frequently. The attack vector requires no special privileges or complex exploitation techniques, making it accessible to threat actors of varying skill levels. The vulnerability affects not only individual workstations but also enterprise environments where 3DSMax is used for collaborative projects, as a single compromised file can propagate the attack across multiple systems. The potential for privilege escalation and system compromise makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations handling sensitive design data or proprietary intellectual property.
Security mitigations for CVE-2009-3577 primarily focus on immediate patching and administrative controls. Autodesk released updates addressing this vulnerability in subsequent versions of 3DSMax, and organizations should prioritize applying these security patches. Additionally, implementing strict file validation policies, disabling automatic script execution, and employing sandboxing techniques can help reduce the attack surface. Network segmentation and monitoring for unusual file access patterns can provide early detection of potential exploitation attempts. From a defensive standpoint, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.006 for execution through scripting and CWE-74 for improper neutralization of special elements in output, highlighting the need for comprehensive input validation and secure coding practices in application callback mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing email filtering and web proxy controls to prevent malicious .max files from reaching end users, as the vulnerability is most commonly exploited through phishing campaigns and malicious file sharing.