CVE-2013-3665 in AutoCad 2014
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Autodesk AutoCAD through 2014, AutoCAD LT through 2014, and DWG TrueView through 2014 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted DWG file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3665 represents a critical security flaw affecting Autodesk AutoCAD versions through 2014, AutoCAD LT versions through 2014, and DWG TrueView versions through 2014. This unspecified vulnerability creates a remote code execution risk that can be exploited through maliciously crafted DWG files, which are the native file format used by Autodesk's computer-aided design software. The flaw exists within the parsing mechanism of these applications when processing DWG files, allowing attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on systems running vulnerable versions of the software. This vulnerability is particularly concerning given the widespread use of AutoCAD and related applications across engineering, architectural, and manufacturing industries where design files are frequently shared between organizations and collaborators.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory management within the DWG file parser component of these applications. When a vulnerable application opens a crafted DWG file, the malicious code embedded within the file's structure can trigger buffer overflows, heap corruption, or other memory-related exploits that allow attackers to execute code with the privileges of the user running the application. The vulnerability operates at the file format parsing level, meaning that simply opening a malicious file can lead to compromise without requiring user interaction beyond the initial file opening. This type of vulnerability maps to CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The attack vector is classified as remote due to the ability to deliver malicious files through email attachments, file sharing systems, or web downloads, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where design files are frequently exchanged.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3665 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can gain full control over affected systems, potentially leading to persistent backdoors, lateral movement within networks, and access to sensitive design data that could include intellectual property, proprietary designs, and confidential engineering specifications. The vulnerability affects not just individual workstations but entire organizations that rely on AutoCAD for critical design work, as compromised systems can serve as entry points for broader network attacks. Organizations using these legacy applications face significant risk due to the widespread deployment of vulnerable versions across various departments including architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing sectors. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, indicating the potential for attackers to establish persistent access and escalate their privileges within the compromised environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3665 should focus on immediate remediation through official software updates from Autodesk, which would include patches addressing the specific parsing vulnerabilities in the DWG file handling components. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures, including scanning downloaded files with updated antivirus signatures and employing sandboxing techniques for suspicious design files. Network segmentation and access controls should be enhanced to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training for users who handle design files is crucial to prevent social engineering attacks that might deliver malicious DWG files. System administrators should monitor for unusual network activity and implement intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and the risks associated with using legacy applications that may no longer receive security updates, as these systems often contain unpatched vulnerabilities that remain attractive targets for attackers. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized software, particularly in environments where design collaboration occurs with external parties.