CVE-2021-40156 in Navisworks
Summary
by MITRE • 09/16/2021
A maliciously crafted DWG file in Autodesk Navisworks 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 can be forced to write beyond allocated boundaries when parsing the DWG files. This vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-40156 represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting Autodesk Navisworks software versions 2019 through 2022. This flaw manifests during the parsing of DWG files, which are industry-standard computer-aided design files used extensively in construction and engineering sectors. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking mechanisms within the software's file parsing routine, specifically when handling maliciously crafted DWG file structures. The buffer overflow occurs when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries designated for storing parsed DWG file content.
This security weakness falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is particularly concerning given Autodesk Navisworks' widespread use in enterprise environments and critical infrastructure projects. Attackers can craft specially designed DWG files that, when opened by an affected version of Navisworks, trigger the buffer overflow condition and subsequently execute arbitrary code on the victim's system. The attack vector requires user interaction through opening the malicious file, making it a typical social engineering target that leverages the trust users place in legitimate design files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive project data, system resources, and network connectivity. In enterprise environments where Navisworks is used for large-scale construction and engineering projects, the compromise of a single workstation could lead to significant data breaches or operational disruption. The vulnerability affects not only individual users but also entire organizations that rely on the software for collaborative design work. Organizations using these software versions face increased risk of targeted attacks, especially in sectors where intellectual property and project data represent significant business assets.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-40156 primarily involve immediate software updates from Autodesk addressing the buffer overflow condition through proper bounds checking implementations. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures for all incoming DWG files, particularly those received from external sources or untrusted parties. Network segmentation and access controls can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious file parsing activities. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized software and establish incident response procedures specifically addressing file-based exploit scenarios. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve execution of malicious code through the compromised application. Regular security awareness training for design and engineering teams is essential to prevent accidental exploitation through malicious file attachments or downloads.