CVE-2016-9305 in FBX-SDK
Summary
by MITRE
Improper handling in the Autodesk FBX-SDK before 2017.1 of type mismatches and previously deleted objects related to reading and converting malformed FBX format files can allow attackers to gain access to uninitialized pointers.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9305 resides within the Autodesk FBX-SDK software development kit, specifically affecting versions prior to 2017.1. This issue manifests through improper handling of type mismatches and previously deleted objects during the processing of FBX format files, which are commonly used for exchanging 3D graphics data between different software applications. The FBX format serves as a critical interoperability standard in the entertainment and design industries, making this vulnerability particularly concerning given the widespread use of Autodesk's tools in professional 3D content creation workflows.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate memory management practices within the FBX-SDK's file parsing routines. When encountering malformed FBX files, the SDK fails to properly validate type consistency between expected and actual data structures, leading to scenarios where uninitialized pointers are accessed. This occurs particularly when the SDK attempts to read converted data from previously deleted objects, creating a classic use-after-free vulnerability pattern. The improper handling of these type mismatches and memory deallocation sequences creates exploitable conditions where an attacker can craft malicious FBX files designed to trigger specific memory access patterns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with potential pathways to execute arbitrary code on systems processing affected FBX files. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through social engineering tactics, such as distributing malicious 3D models or animation files that appear legitimate but contain crafted payloads designed to exploit the uninitialized pointer access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in professional environments where 3D artists and designers frequently exchange files, as the attack surface increases with each file transfer. Additionally, the vulnerability may be exploited in automated systems that process FBX files without user intervention, such as content management systems or rendering farms that automatically import 3D assets.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to Autodesk FBX-SDK version 2017.1 or later, which contains proper memory management fixes and improved validation routines. Security configurations should include strict file validation and sandboxing of FBX file processing, particularly in environments where untrusted files may be encountered. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which describes use-after-free conditions, and represents a significant concern for the ATT&CK framework's execution and privilege escalation categories. System administrators should also consider implementing network-based protections such as file content filtering and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns, while developers should ensure proper input validation and memory management practices in their own applications that utilize FBX file processing capabilities.