CVE-2024-8588 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability (CWE-125) identified in Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025. The vulnerability arises from improper parsing of maliciously crafted SLDPRT files within the odxsw_dll.dll component of AutoCAD. When such a file is processed, the application may read memory beyond the intended buffer boundaries. This can lead to several adverse outcomes, including application crashes (denial of service), unauthorized disclosure of sensitive memory contents, or potentially arbitrary code execution within the context of the AutoCAD process. The vulnerability is triggered by opening or importing a specially crafted SLDPRT file, which is a common file format used for 3D part models in AutoCAD. Exploitation does not require prior authentication but does require user interaction in the form of opening or loading the malicious file. Although no public exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date, the nature of the vulnerability—particularly the possibility of arbitrary code execution—makes it a significant security concern. The lack of an available patch at the time of reporting increases the urgency for organizations to implement interim mitigations. Given AutoCAD’s widespread use in engineering, manufacturing, and architectural sectors, this vulnerability could be leveraged to compromise design data integrity, disrupt operations, or gain footholds within corporate networks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-8588 could be substantial, especially for those in industries heavily reliant on AutoCAD for design and manufacturing workflows such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and industrial engineering. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to intellectual property embedded in design files, disruption of critical design processes through application crashes, or broader network compromise if arbitrary code execution is achieved. This could result in financial losses, reputational damage, and potential regulatory consequences under GDPR if sensitive data is exposed. Additionally, disruption in design and manufacturing pipelines could delay project timelines and impact supply chains. The threat is particularly relevant to organizations that frequently exchange SLDPRT files with external partners or contractors, increasing the risk of receiving maliciously crafted files. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is serious, exploitation complexity and required user interaction somewhat limit its immediate risk. However, the potential for code execution elevates the threat beyond a simple denial-of-service scenario.

1. Implement strict file handling policies: Restrict the opening of SLDPRT files to trusted sources only and validate files before opening them in AutoCAD. 2. Employ sandboxing: Run AutoCAD in a sandboxed environment or use application containment technologies to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 3. Monitor and filter incoming files: Use network and endpoint security solutions to scan and block suspicious or malformed SLDPRT files before they reach end users. 4. Educate users: Train employees to recognize suspicious files and avoid opening files from untrusted or unknown sources. 5. Maintain least privilege: Ensure AutoCAD runs with the minimum necessary privileges to reduce the impact of any code execution. 6. Stay updated: Monitor Autodesk’s advisories closely and apply patches immediately once they become available. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools: Deploy EDR solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors associated with exploitation attempts, such as unexpected crashes or memory access violations. 8. Network segmentation: Isolate systems running AutoCAD from critical infrastructure to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.