CVE-2022-25792 in AutoCAD 2019
Summary
by MITRE • 04/12/2022
A maliciously crafted DXF file in Autodesk AutoCAD 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 and Autodesk Navisworks 2022 can be used to write beyond the allocated buffer through Buffer overflow vulnerability. This vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-25792 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw affecting Autodesk AutoCAD and Navisworks software across multiple versions including 2019 through 2022. This vulnerability resides in the handling of DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) files, which are commonly used for exchanging CAD data between different software applications. The flaw manifests when the software processes maliciously crafted DXF files that contain oversized data structures or malformed buffer allocations, leading to memory corruption through buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it exists within the core file parsing functionality that is frequently accessed during normal CAD operations, making it highly exploitable in real-world scenarios.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows CWE-121, which describes buffer overflow conditions where data is written beyond the boundaries of a fixed-length buffer. When Autodesk AutoCAD or Navisworks encounters a specially crafted DXF file, the software's parser fails to properly validate the buffer size limits during data extraction or parsing operations. This inadequate boundary checking allows an attacker to craft malicious input that overflows the allocated memory space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function return addresses, stack pointers, or other critical program variables. The overflow can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow and ultimately achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the running AutoCAD or Navisworks process.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-25792 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway for complete system compromise. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows adversaries to execute malicious code with the privileges of the AutoCAD or Navisworks user, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, or further lateral movement within network environments. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because DXF files are commonly shared between users and organizations, making it feasible for attackers to deliver malicious payloads through seemingly legitimate CAD file exchanges. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on compromised systems. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation, as attackers could leverage the code execution capabilities to gain elevated system privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-25792 should include immediate patch management deployment from Autodesk, as the vendor has released security updates addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies, particularly for DXF files received from external sources or untrusted parties, and consider implementing sandboxing or virtualization techniques for CAD file processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of opening unverified CAD files. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting controls and monitoring for unusual AutoCAD or Navisworks process behavior can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and memory safety practices in software development, particularly for applications handling complex file formats that require extensive parsing operations.