CVE-2016-9307 in FBX-SDK
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the Autodesk FBX-SDK before 2017.1 can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code when reading or converting malformed 3DS format files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/14/2026
The Autodesk FBX-SDK vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-9307 represents a critical security flaw affecting versions prior to 2017.1, where multiple buffer overflows exist in the software's handling of 3DS format files. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the SDK's file parsing routines, creating exploitable conditions that can be leveraged by malicious actors to gain unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically manifests during the reading or conversion processes of malformed 3DS files, which are commonly used in 3D graphics applications and content creation workflows. Attackers can craft specially designed 3DS files that trigger these buffer overflow conditions when processed by vulnerable SDK versions, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on systems where the affected software is installed. The vulnerability impacts a wide range of applications that rely on Autodesk's FBX-SDK for 3D model processing and conversion, including but not limited to animation software, game engines, and digital content creation tools. These buffer overflows occur when the SDK attempts to read or convert 3DS files containing malformed data structures that exceed allocated memory buffers, causing memory corruption that can be exploited to overwrite critical program memory locations. The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers stack-based buffer overflow scenarios. From an operational perspective, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges, install persistent backdoors, or gain complete system control. The attack vector is particularly concerning because 3DS files are commonly shared in creative industries, making it relatively easy for adversaries to distribute malicious files through legitimate channels. This vulnerability can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on compromised systems. The affected environment includes not only end-user applications but also server-side processing systems that handle 3D content conversion, making the attack surface particularly broad. Organizations utilizing Autodesk products for 3D content management and processing face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or file sharing platforms. The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal specialized knowledge, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers with varying skill levels. The memory corruption patterns associated with these buffer overflows can potentially be chained with other exploits to create more sophisticated attack scenarios, increasing the overall threat level. Security researchers have noted that the vulnerability's impact is exacerbated by the widespread adoption of Autodesk's FBX-SDK across multiple industries, including gaming, entertainment, and architectural visualization sectors where 3D content processing is fundamental to operations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper memory management and input validation in software development, particularly in libraries and SDKs that process external data formats. Organizations should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, implement network segmentation to limit potential attack spread, and conduct thorough security assessments of all applications that utilize the vulnerable SDK versions. Additionally, organizations should establish robust file validation processes and consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for processing untrusted 3D content to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.