CVE-2021-27488 in Luxion KeyShot
Summary
by MITRE • 05/28/2021
Datakit Software libraries CatiaV5_3dRead, CatiaV6_3dRead, Step3dRead, Ug3dReadPsr, Jt3dReadPsr modules in KeyShot Versions v10.1 and prior lack proper validation of user-supplied data when parsing CATPart files. This could result in an out-of-bounds write past the end of an allocated structure. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-27488 affects KeyShot software versions v10.1 and earlier, specifically targeting Datakit Software libraries including CatiaV5_3dRead, CatiaV6_3dRead, Step3dRead, Ug3dReadPsr, and Jt3dReadPsr modules. This issue stems from inadequate input validation during the parsing of CATPart files, which are commonly used in 3D CAD data exchange formats. The flaw exists within the software's handling of user-supplied data, creating a critical security gap that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 as a stack-based buffer overflow, representing a fundamental weakness in memory management and data validation practices. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, as it enables remote code execution through malformed file parsing.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the software attempts to parse CATPart files without proper validation of input parameters. When a maliciously crafted CATPart file is processed, the parsing modules fail to validate the structure and size of data elements, leading to memory corruption beyond allocated boundaries. This memory corruption can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program data or execution pointers. The vulnerability specifically impacts the 3D rendering and data import functionality of KeyShot, which is widely used in engineering, design, and manufacturing environments where 3D model exchange is common. The flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the parsing process through carefully constructed file headers or data structures that exceed expected boundaries, ultimately enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the currently running process.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-27488 extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant threat to enterprise environments that rely heavily on 3D CAD data exchange. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability through social engineering campaigns targeting engineers and designers who regularly handle 3D model files from external sources. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in collaborative environments where design files are shared between organizations, as a single compromised file could compromise entire design workflows. Organizations using KeyShot for product development, manufacturing, or engineering analysis face potential data breaches, system compromise, and intellectual property theft. The exploitability of this vulnerability is heightened by the fact that many engineers and designers frequently open files from unknown sources without proper security screening, making the attack surface particularly broad. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as successful exploitation could lead to elevated privileges within the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-27488 should focus on immediate software updates and implementation of defensive measures. Organizations should prioritize updating to KeyShot versions that address this vulnerability, as the vendor has released patches specifically targeting the input validation issues in the affected Datakit libraries. Network segmentation and file validation policies should be implemented to prevent automatic execution of potentially malicious 3D files, particularly those originating from external sources. Security controls should include mandatory file format validation, sandboxed file processing environments, and regular security assessments of 3D model handling workflows. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can help prevent execution of untrusted 3D file parsers, while regular security training for engineering teams can reduce social engineering risks. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing automated threat detection systems that monitor for unusual file processing patterns or memory access anomalies that could indicate exploitation attempts. These measures align with ATT&CK mitigation techniques focused on input validation and application control to reduce the attack surface and prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.