CVE-2024-24923 in Simcenter Femap
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2024
A vulnerability has been identified in Simcenter Femap (All versions < V2401.0000), Simcenter Femap (All versions < V2306.0001). The affected applications contain an out of bounds read past the end of an allocated structure while parsing specially crafted Catia MODEL files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-22055)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2025
This vulnerability exists in Siemens Simcenter Femap software versions prior to V2401.0000 and V2306.0001, representing a critical security flaw that could enable remote code execution. The issue stems from improper input validation when processing specially crafted Catia MODEL files, which are commonly used in computer-aided engineering and product design environments. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds read condition that occurs during the parsing of these specific file formats, where the application attempts to access memory locations beyond the boundaries of allocated structures.
The technical nature of this flaw places it squarely within the CWE-125 category of out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities, which are classified as a fundamental memory safety issue in software development. When the affected software processes a maliciously crafted Catia MODEL file, the parsing routine fails to properly validate buffer boundaries, leading to a situation where the application reads data from memory locations that were not allocated for the intended operation. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through a simple file upload or import operation, making it accessible to attackers without requiring complex exploitation techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for organizations using Simcenter Femap in engineering and design workflows, as it could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently running process. This means that an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain full control over the affected system, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects industries that rely heavily on finite element analysis and computer-aided design, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors where these tools are integral to product development processes.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including applying the vendor-provided patches for Simcenter Femap versions prior to the specified fixed releases, implementing strict file validation procedures for all imported Catia MODEL files, and deploying network segmentation to limit access to engineering workstations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1203 - Exploitation for Client Execution, which emphasizes the importance of validating file inputs and preventing untrusted code execution in enterprise environments. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for unusual file processing activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.