CVE-2025-10881 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability classified under CWE-122, affecting Autodesk Shared Components version 2026.0. The vulnerability arises when a maliciously crafted CATPRODUCT file is parsed by Autodesk products that utilize these shared components. Specifically, the flaw allows an attacker to overflow a heap buffer, which can lead to memory corruption. This memory corruption can be exploited to cause application crashes (denial of service), unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information from memory, or arbitrary code execution within the context of the affected process. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring the attacker to have local access to the system and for the user to interact with the malicious file (UI:R). No privileges are required (PR:N), which means any user on the system can trigger the vulnerability if they open the malicious file. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), indicating a broad and severe impact. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the high CVSS score (7.8) reflects the potential severity. The vulnerability was reserved in September 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. Autodesk Shared Components are widely used across Autodesk’s CAD and product design software, making this a significant concern for users of these products. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate risk mitigation through alternative controls.

For European organizations, especially those in manufacturing, engineering, and design sectors that heavily rely on Autodesk software, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to intellectual property, disruption of design workflows through application crashes, and potential system compromise if arbitrary code execution is achieved. This could result in operational downtime, loss of sensitive design data, and potential financial and reputational damage. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, organizations handling sensitive product designs or proprietary data are particularly vulnerable. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where users may open untrusted files or where insider threats exist. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation attempts, especially as threat actors often develop exploits following public vulnerability disclosures.

Organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy. First, monitor Autodesk’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-10881 and apply them promptly once available. Until patches are released, restrict the opening of CATPRODUCT files from untrusted or unknown sources, employing strict file handling policies. Use endpoint protection solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors related to heap overflows or suspicious file parsing activities. Employ application whitelisting to limit execution of unauthorized code. Educate users on the risks of opening files from untrusted sources and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the impact of potential exploitation. Network segmentation can limit lateral movement if a system is compromised. Additionally, consider sandboxing Autodesk applications or opening files in isolated environments to contain potential exploits. Regularly audit and monitor logs for unusual application crashes or memory access violations that could indicate exploitation attempts.