CVE-2024-13050 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, specifically affecting version 13_SE_13048. The flaw exists in the VC6 file parser component, where the software fails to properly validate the length of user-supplied data before copying it into a heap-allocated buffer. This lack of bounds checking allows an attacker to overflow the buffer, potentially overwriting adjacent memory and enabling arbitrary code execution within the context of the vulnerable process. The vulnerability requires user interaction, such as opening a maliciously crafted VC6 file or visiting a web page that triggers the file parsing. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow) and has been assigned a CVSS v3.0 base score of 7.8, indicating high severity. The attack vector is local (AV:L), with low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requires user interaction (UI:R). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability was reported by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) as ZDI-CAN-24976. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to systems running the affected version of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, especially in environments where untrusted files may be opened.

The potential impact of CVE-2024-13050 is substantial for organizations using Ashlar-Vellum Graphite 13_SE_13048. Successful exploitation allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the application, potentially leading to full system compromise if the user has elevated rights. This can result in unauthorized disclosure of sensitive design data, modification or destruction of critical files, and disruption of business operations. Given the software's use in engineering and design workflows, exploitation could compromise intellectual property and disrupt product development cycles. The requirement for user interaction limits mass exploitation but targeted attacks against high-value organizations remain a serious concern. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate it, as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability details are widely known.

To mitigate CVE-2024-13050, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Monitor Ashlar-Vellum vendor communications closely for official patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 2) Restrict the opening of VC6 files from untrusted or unknown sources by enforcing strict file handling policies and user education to prevent inadvertent execution of malicious files. 3) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context and privileges of Ashlar-Vellum Graphite, reducing the impact of potential exploitation. 4) Utilize endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected memory operations or code injection patterns. 5) Implement network segmentation to isolate systems running Ashlar-Vellum Graphite from critical infrastructure and sensitive data repositories. 6) Conduct regular security awareness training emphasizing the risks of opening files from untrusted sources and recognizing social engineering tactics. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific attack vector and software context.