CVE-2022-46346 in Parasolid
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2022
A vulnerability has been identified in Parasolid V33.1 (All versions < V33.1.264), Parasolid V34.0 (All versions < V34.0.252), Parasolid V34.1 (All versions < V34.1.242), Parasolid V35.0 (All versions < V35.0.170). The affected applications contain an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated structure while parsing specially crafted X_B files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-19071)
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/08/2023
This vulnerability resides within the Parasolid geometric kernel, a widely used component in computer-aided design and engineering software. The flaw manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when processing specially crafted X_B files, which are binary formats commonly used for exchanging 3D geometric data between different CAD applications. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of Parasolid across different major releases, specifically targeting versions prior to V33.1.264, V34.0.252, V34.1.242, and V35.0.170, indicating a significant impact across the product line. The out-of-bounds write vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that can be exploited to achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the current process, making it particularly dangerous for applications that process untrusted geometric data from external sources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper bounds checking during the parsing of X_B file structures. When the Parasolid kernel encounters malformed data within these binary files, it fails to validate array boundaries before writing data to allocated memory regions. This allows an attacker to write data beyond the intended memory allocation, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical control data structures. The vulnerability can be triggered through a simple file-based attack vector where an attacker crafts a malicious X_B file that, when opened by an affected application, causes the out-of-bounds write to occur. The flaw maps directly to CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write, which is classified as a critical weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. This weakness is particularly concerning because it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can be leveraged to achieve privilege escalation and persistent access within affected systems. Applications that utilize Parasolid for processing CAD files from untrusted sources, such as design collaboration platforms, document management systems, or automated manufacturing workflows, become prime targets for exploitation. The attack surface is particularly broad given Parasolid's widespread adoption across various engineering and manufacturing software suites. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands within the application context. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk for supply chain attacks, as malicious actors could embed crafted X_B files in legitimate design workflows, potentially compromising entire engineering environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the patched versions of Parasolid, specifically versions V33.1.264, V34.0.252, V34.1.242, and V35.0.170, which contain the necessary bounds checking fixes. Additionally, implementing file validation mechanisms and restricting the processing of untrusted X_B files can provide defense-in-depth protection. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on identifying unusual file processing patterns and potential exploitation attempts within affected applications. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and memory safety in software components that process external data, particularly in engineering and design environments where file exchange is routine. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should prioritize updates to core libraries like Parasolid that form the foundation of numerous commercial applications.