CVE-2022-27867 in AutoCAD
Summary
by MITRE • 06/21/2022
A maliciously crafted JT file in Autodesk AutoCAD 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 can be used to trigger use-after-free vulnerability. Exploitation of this vulnerability may lead to code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-27867 represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Autodesk AutoCAD software versions 2022, 2021, 2020, and 2019. This vulnerability manifests when the software processes maliciously crafted .jt files, which are typically used for 3d data exchange in CAD environments. The flaw occurs within the file parsing mechanism where improper memory management allows an attacker to manipulate memory objects after they have been freed, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-416 category of Use After Free, which is classified as a serious memory safety issue that can lead to system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to prepare a specially crafted .jt file that, when opened by AutoCAD, triggers the use-after-free condition. When AutoCAD attempts to process the malformed file, it allocates memory for certain objects but fails to properly manage the memory lifecycle. The attacker can manipulate the file structure to cause the software to free memory associated with specific objects while still maintaining references to that memory, enabling a controlled overwrite or execution of malicious code. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through simple file opening operations, making it highly accessible to attackers who can deliver malicious files through social engineering or direct compromise of CAD environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-27867 extends beyond simple code execution as it represents a complete compromise of the victim's system. Once exploited, attackers can gain full control over the AutoCAD process and potentially the entire system, as AutoCAD typically runs with elevated privileges in CAD environments. The vulnerability affects enterprise CAD systems where multiple users collaborate on complex projects, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threats. The attack surface is particularly large given that .jt files are commonly shared between different CAD platforms and organizations, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation through various attack vectors.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, including immediate patching of affected AutoCAD versions and deployment of network segmentation controls to limit access to CAD environments. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) as attackers can leverage the use-after-free condition to execute arbitrary commands. Additional mitigations include implementing application whitelisting policies, disabling automatic file opening for untrusted .jt files, and conducting regular security awareness training for CAD users. System administrators should also monitor for unusual AutoCAD process behavior and implement network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. Given the nature of the vulnerability, organizations should consider isolating CAD environments from general corporate networks and implementing strict access controls for CAD software installations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of memory safety in enterprise software and highlights the need for regular security assessments of widely used applications in industrial control systems and design environments.