CVE-2021-41534 in Solid Edge SE2021
Summary
by MITRE • 09/28/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in Solid Edge SE2021 (All versions < SE2021MP8). The affected application is vulnerable to an out of bounds read past the end of an allocated buffer when parsing JT files. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to leak information in the context of the current process (ZDI-CAN-13703).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2021
This vulnerability exists within Solid Edge SE2021 software where the application fails to properly validate buffer boundaries when processing JT file format data. The issue manifests as an out of bounds read condition that occurs during the parsing of JT files, which are commonly used for 3d model exchange in CAD environments. The vulnerability affects all versions of Solid Edge SE2021 prior to SE2021MP8, representing a significant security gap in the software's input validation mechanisms.
The technical flaw stems from improper bounds checking within the JT file parser implementation. When the application encounters JT formatted data, it attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially accessing adjacent memory segments. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-125 weakness category, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to information disclosure or system instability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within the context of the currently running process, meaning an attacker could potentially extract sensitive information from memory that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information leakage, as it creates potential pathways for more sophisticated attacks within the target environment. An attacker who successfully exploits this condition could gain access to memory contents that might include sensitive data, cryptographic keys, or other confidential information processed by the application. This represents a significant risk in enterprise environments where Solid Edge is used for design and engineering work involving proprietary intellectual property and sensitive project data. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script interpreter usage, as it could enable attackers to perform reconnaissance activities and gather intelligence about system memory structures.
Organizations using Solid Edge SE2021 should prioritize immediate remediation through the installation of SE2021MP8 or later versions that contain the necessary patches for this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing network segmentation and access controls around systems running Solid Edge can help limit potential attack surfaces. Regular security assessments should include verification of software patch levels and monitoring for unusual file processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in CAD software environments where third-party files are frequently processed, as these applications often handle complex binary formats that can contain malicious payloads designed to exploit such buffer overread conditions.