CVE-2022-40654 in SpaceClaim
Summary
by MITRE • 09/15/2022
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Ansys SpaceClaim 2022 R1. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file. The specific flaw exists within the parsing of X_T files. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in a write past the end of an allocated data structure. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. Was ZDI-CAN-18351.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-40654 represents a critical security flaw in Ansys SpaceClaim 2022 R1 that enables remote code execution through improper input validation during X_T file processing. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of stack-based buffer overflow, where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. The flaw specifically manifests during the parsing of X_T files which are commonly used for 3D model exchange in engineering applications, making this attack vector particularly dangerous for users who frequently handle CAD files from external sources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate validation of user-supplied data within the file parsing routine. When SpaceClaim processes an X_T file, the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of data elements within the file format, creating opportunities for attackers to craft malicious files that trigger memory corruption. This memory corruption occurs when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated buffer space, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical program data structures. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction through visiting a malicious webpage or opening a crafted file, making it a classic example of a client-side exploit that leverages social engineering tactics to achieve remote code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-40654 extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive engineering data, or deploy additional malware within engineering environments where SpaceClaim is commonly used. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely heavily on CAD software for design and manufacturing processes, creating potential risks for intellectual property theft and operational disruption. Given that SpaceClaim is widely used in aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing industries, the exploitation of this vulnerability could result in significant financial losses and competitive disadvantages for affected organizations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of Ansys SpaceClaim that addresses this vulnerability, implementing strict file validation policies for incoming CAD files, and deploying network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns. Security teams should also consider implementing sandboxing mechanisms for file processing, restricting user permissions when handling external files, and conducting regular security awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, highlighting the importance of endpoint protection and user behavior monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and maintain detailed inventory of all software installations that may be vulnerable to similar file parsing vulnerabilities.