CVE-2026-19568 in 3ds Max
Summary
by MITRE • 08/25/2026
A maliciously crafted SVG file, when parsed through Autodesk 3ds Max, can force a Memory Corruption vulnerability. A malicious actor can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2026
The identified vulnerability represents a critical security flaw within Autodesk 3ds Max, specifically triggered by the parsing and rendering engine when processing Scalable Vector Graphics files. This issue falls under the category of memory corruption vulnerabilities, which are among the most dangerous classes of software defects due to their potential for arbitrary code execution. The root cause lies in improper handling of specific data structures or input parameters within the SVG parser component. When a maliciously crafted SVG file is loaded into the application, it exploits a logic error that leads to an out-of-bounds write or use-after-free condition. This memory corruption disrupts the normal flow of program execution and allows for the manipulation of heap metadata or function pointers stored in adjacent memory regions.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with Common Weakness Enumeration identifiers such as CWE-120 Buffer Overflow without null termination or CWE-416 Use After Free, depending on the specific mechanism exploited by the crafted file. The attacker constructs an SVG document containing specially formatted elements that exceed expected buffer limits or reference freed memory blocks during the parsing phase. As 3ds Max processes these malformed inputs to render vector graphics for animation and modeling workflows, the application fails to validate input boundaries adequately. This lack of rigorous bounds checking enables the injection of shellcode or other malicious payloads into the process memory space. The exploitation does not require user interaction beyond opening the file, making it a high-risk threat in collaborative environments where files are exchanged frequently.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as successful exploitation results in arbitrary code execution within the context of the currently logged-in user. This means that an attacker can gain full control over the compromised system if the application runs with elevated privileges or standard user rights sufficient to install malware and exfiltrate data. The ability to execute arbitrary code allows for a wide range of malicious activities, including keylogging, credential theft, installation of backdoors, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Since 3ds Max is often used in professional studios handling sensitive intellectual property such as unreleased game assets or architectural designs, the breach could lead to significant financial loss and reputational damage. Furthermore, because the vulnerability exists during file parsing, it can be weaponized via phishing campaigns where victims are tricked into opening seemingly legitimate design files sent by trusted contacts who may have been compromised themselves.
In terms of threat intelligence frameworks, this attack vector corresponds to MITRE ATT&CK techniques related to Initial Access and Execution. Specifically, it aligns with T1204 User Execution, as the victim must open the malicious file for exploitation to occur. It also relates to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter if the executed code invokes system commands or scripts post-exploitation. Defense-in-depth strategies are essential given that application-layer vulnerabilities like this cannot always be patched immediately by end-users. Organizations should implement strict email filtering rules to block SVG attachments from unknown senders and deploy endpoint detection and response solutions capable of identifying anomalous memory access patterns associated with exploitation attempts.
Mitigation requires a multi-faceted approach involving both immediate administrative controls and long-term software updates. Autodesk must release a security patch that addresses the input validation flaws in the SVG parser, ensuring all buffer operations are properly bounded and memory is managed securely. Until patches are applied, users should disable automatic loading of external resources within 3ds Max settings if possible and avoid opening SVG files from untrusted sources. Network segmentation can also limit the blast radius by restricting which systems have access to shared drives containing design assets. Additionally, enabling Data Execution Prevention and Address Space Layout Randomization on workstations running Autodesk software adds layers of complexity for attackers attempting to exploit memory corruption flaws effectively. Regular security awareness training is crucial to ensure that designers recognize suspicious file types and report potential phishing attempts before they result in compromise.