CVE-2024-23147 is a memory corruption vulnerability classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) affecting Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. The flaw exists in the way AutoCAD parses certain CAD file formats—specifically CATPART, X_B, and STEP files—within the ASMKERN228A.dll and ASMKERN229A.dll libraries. When a specially crafted file is loaded, the parsing routines perform an out-of-bounds write operation, causing memory corruption through a write access violation. This corruption can destabilize the application and, when chained with other vulnerabilities, enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the AutoCAD process. The vulnerability requires no privileges but does require user interaction, such as opening or importing a malicious CAD file. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the potential for remote code execution makes this a critical concern for users of AutoCAD, especially in environments where CAD files are exchanged frequently. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges required. The vulnerability was reserved in January 2024 and published in June 2024, with no patches currently available, increasing the urgency for defensive measures.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-23147 is significant due to the widespread use of Autodesk AutoCAD in critical sectors such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, civil engineering, and architecture. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive design data, disrupt production workflows, or implant persistent malware within engineering environments. This could result in intellectual property theft, operational downtime, and potential safety risks if compromised designs are used in manufacturing or construction. The vulnerability’s ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously makes it particularly dangerous. Given the collaborative nature of CAD workflows, malicious files could be introduced via supply chain partners or external contractors, increasing the attack surface. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score indicates that attackers may develop exploits rapidly. European organizations with stringent data protection regulations such as GDPR must also consider the compliance implications of data breaches stemming from this vulnerability.

1. Monitor Autodesk’s official channels closely for patch releases and apply updates immediately once available. 2. Implement strict file validation and scanning policies for all CAD files received from external sources, including contractors and partners. 3. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to restrict AutoCAD’s ability to execute unauthorized code or access sensitive system resources. 4. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unexpected memory access patterns or process injections. 5. Educate users on the risks of opening CAD files from untrusted sources and enforce policies requiring verification of file origins. 6. Consider network segmentation to isolate engineering workstations running AutoCAD from other critical infrastructure. 7. Utilize advanced memory protection features available in modern operating systems, such as Data Execution Prevention (DEP) and Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), to reduce exploitation success. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on CAD environments to identify and remediate potential attack vectors.