CVE-2024-8596 in AutoCAD
Summary
by MITRE • 10/30/2024
A maliciously crafted MODEL file when parsed in libodxdll.dll through Autodesk AutoCAD can force an Out-of-Bound Write vulnerability. A malicious actor can leverage this vulnerability to cause a crash, write sensitive data, or execute arbitrary code in the context of the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-8596 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the libodxdll.dll library component of Autodesk AutoCAD software. This issue arises specifically during the parsing of maliciously crafted MODEL files, which are typically used for storing and exchanging design data within the AutoCAD ecosystem. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition where insufficient input validation allows an attacker to manipulate memory boundaries during file processing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the MODEL file parser logic. When AutoCAD attempts to process a specially constructed MODEL file, the libodxdll.dll component fails to properly validate array indices or memory allocation limits, resulting in unauthorized memory writes beyond allocated buffer boundaries. This flaw operates at the intersection of software security and memory management, where the absence of proper input sanitization creates opportunities for exploitation. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that can be triggered through standard file parsing operations without requiring elevated privileges or special user interactions.
From an operational perspective, the impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability to encompass potential code execution capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can cause immediate system crashes, but more critically, can manipulate memory contents to write sensitive data or inject malicious code into the running AutoCAD process. The exploitation occurs within the context of the current user process, meaning that successful attacks could lead to complete system compromise if the AutoCAD application is running with elevated privileges. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where AutoCAD is used for CAD design work, as these systems often contain sensitive design intellectual property that could be compromised.
The security implications align with CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software systems, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. Organizations utilizing AutoCAD in professional design environments face significant risk exposure, particularly in sectors such as architecture, engineering, and construction where design files often contain proprietary information. The vulnerability represents a high-severity threat that requires immediate attention from system administrators and security teams to prevent potential exploitation by threat actors targeting CAD environments. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patch deployment from Autodesk, network segmentation to limit access to AutoCAD systems, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns within design environments.
This vulnerability exemplifies the challenges inherent in software security for specialized applications, where complex file format parsers become attack vectors due to insufficient input validation mechanisms. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that AutoCAD is widely used across industries, making the potential impact of exploitation broad and significant. Security teams must consider implementing additional protective measures such as application whitelisting, file integrity monitoring, and regular security assessments of CAD environments to prevent unauthorized access and exploitation of such vulnerabilities.