CVE-2024-24924 in Simcenter Femap
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2024
A vulnerability has been identified in Simcenter Femap (All versions < V2306.0000). The affected application contains an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated buffer while parsing a specially crafted Catia MODEL file. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-22059)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2024-24924 affects Simcenter Femap version 2306.0000 and earlier, representing a critical out-of-bounds write condition that arises during the parsing of specially crafted Catia MODEL files. This flaw exists within the application's file handling mechanism where insufficient bounds checking occurs when processing user-supplied data from external files. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of input parameters during the parsing of complex 3D model data structures, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate the application's memory operations. The issue manifests when the application attempts to write data beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially leading to memory corruption that can be exploited for arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages a classic buffer overflow condition that falls under CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write operations. When an attacker crafts a malicious Catia MODEL file containing oversized or malformed data structures, the parsing routine fails to validate array indices or buffer limits, allowing the program to write beyond intended memory boundaries. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of malicious code through application-specific vulnerabilities. The affected application processes the crafted file and subsequently attempts to store data in memory locations that extend beyond the originally allocated buffer, creating a potential execution path for attacker-controlled code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides an attacker with the ability to operate within the security context of the currently running process. This means that any privileges or permissions granted to the Simcenter Femap application will be available to the malicious code, potentially enabling access to sensitive data, system resources, or further escalation within the network environment. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in engineering and simulation environments where users frequently exchange complex 3D models and CAD files, making it likely that attackers could leverage this flaw through social engineering or supply chain compromise techniques. The attack vector requires the user to open a specially crafted Catia MODEL file, making it a user-initiated exploit that could be delivered through email attachments, shared network drives, or malicious software distribution channels.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-24924 should focus on immediate patching of affected Simcenter Femap installations to version 2306.0000 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies for all incoming CAD files, particularly those from external sources, and consider deploying sandboxed environments for file analysis before opening in production systems. Network-based mitigations include implementing file type restrictions and content inspection for Catia MODEL files, while endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious file handling activities. Additionally, security awareness training should emphasize the dangers of opening unknown or untrusted CAD files, and organizations should establish secure file transfer protocols that include automated virus scanning and integrity verification. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation and memory safety practices, particularly in applications that process complex binary data formats, and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle to prevent similar issues in future releases.