CVE-2024-8596 is a security vulnerability classified as CWE-787, an Out-of-Bounds Write, affecting Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of a maliciously crafted MODEL file when parsed by the libodxdll.dll component within AutoCAD. Specifically, the flaw allows a specially crafted MODEL file to trigger an out-of-bounds write operation in memory, which can lead to memory corruption. This corruption can manifest as a crash of the AutoCAD process, data corruption within the application, or potentially arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user running AutoCAD. The vulnerability does not require user authentication but does require that the user open or otherwise process a malicious MODEL file within AutoCAD. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no patches have yet been released by Autodesk. Given the nature of the vulnerability, exploitation would likely require social engineering or delivery of a malicious MODEL file through trusted channels such as email attachments, shared network drives, or compromised project files. The vulnerability affects multiple recent versions of AutoCAD, a widely used CAD software in engineering, architecture, and design industries globally. The libodxdll.dll is a core library responsible for parsing and handling CAD file formats, making this vulnerability critical to the integrity and security of AutoCAD workflows.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-8596 could be significant, especially for those in sectors heavily reliant on AutoCAD, such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, and infrastructure development. Successful exploitation could lead to denial of service through application crashes, resulting in workflow disruption and potential project delays. More critically, arbitrary code execution could allow attackers to execute malicious payloads within the context of the AutoCAD process, potentially leading to broader system compromise, data theft, or lateral movement within corporate networks. Since AutoCAD files are often shared across teams and external partners, the risk of supply chain or insider threats is elevated. Data corruption could also compromise the integrity of design files, leading to costly errors or safety issues in engineering projects. The lack of authentication requirements for exploitation increases the risk, as any user opening a malicious MODEL file could trigger the vulnerability. Given the widespread use of AutoCAD in European industries and the critical nature of the data handled, this vulnerability poses a moderate to high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational assets.

1. Immediate mitigation should focus on restricting the handling of MODEL files from untrusted or unknown sources. Implement strict file validation and scanning policies for all CAD files entering the environment. 2. Employ network segmentation to isolate systems running AutoCAD from general user networks to limit the spread of any potential compromise. 3. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to monitor for unusual behavior or crashes related to AutoCAD processes, enabling rapid detection of exploitation attempts. 4. Educate users on the risks of opening unsolicited or unexpected MODEL files, emphasizing verification of file sources before opening. 5. Until an official patch is released, consider deploying application whitelisting or sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of any arbitrary code execution within AutoCAD. 6. Maintain regular backups of critical CAD files and project data to enable recovery in case of data corruption. 7. Monitor Autodesk’s security advisories closely for patch releases and apply updates promptly once available. 8. If feasible, employ virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) or isolated environments for AutoCAD use to contain potential exploitation.