CVE-2022-33890 in AutoCAD
Summary
by MITRE • 10/03/2022
A maliciously crafted PCT or DWF file when consumed through DesignReview.exe application could lead to memory corruption vulnerability. This vulnerability in conjunction with other vulnerabilities could lead to code execution in the context of the current process.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-33890 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within the DesignReview.exe application that processes PCT and DWF file formats. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory handling mechanisms when parsing maliciously crafted files that conform to the PCT (ProgeCAD Template) or DWF (Design Web Format) file structures. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to load and interpret these file formats without adequate bounds checking or memory allocation safeguards, creating potential pathways for arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which addresses buffer overflow vulnerabilities in heap-based memory structures. When a malicious file is processed by DesignReview.exe, the application's failure to properly validate file boundaries and memory allocation parameters allows attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical process memory regions. This memory corruption can occur during file parsing operations where the application assumes certain data structures will maintain expected sizes and formats, but malicious input disrupts these assumptions through carefully crafted file contents.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations that utilize the DesignReview.exe application for document processing and collaboration. The attack vector requires the victim to open a maliciously crafted file, making social engineering and phishing campaigns particularly effective in exploiting this weakness. Once executed, the vulnerability can lead to code execution within the context of the current process, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges, install malware, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The impact extends beyond individual user compromise to potential network-wide infiltration if the application runs with elevated privileges or if the compromised system serves as a gateway to other network resources.
The exploitation of CVE-2022-33890 aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers scripting languages and T1203, which describes exploitation for privilege escalation. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of broader attack chains where initial access through file-based exploits can lead to more sophisticated compromise techniques. Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense including regular application updates, file validation policies, and user education programs to reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of input sanitization and memory safety practices in applications that process external file formats, particularly in engineering and design environments where file sharing and collaboration are common practices.