CVE-2025-11918 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Rockwell Automation Arena® Simulation software, specifically affecting versions 16.20.10 and earlier. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of DOE files during parsing, which can lead to memory corruption on the stack. This flaw allows a local attacker to craft a malicious DOE file that, when opened by the Arena® Simulation application, triggers the buffer overflow and enables arbitrary code execution within the context of the user running the software. The attack vector requires local access and user interaction (opening the malicious file), but no authentication or elevated privileges are necessary. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121, indicating a classic stack-based buffer overflow scenario. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 7.1, reflecting high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), high attack complexity (AC:H), no privileges required (PR:N), user interaction required (UI:A), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (VC:H, VI:H, VA:H). No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the risk remains significant due to the potential for arbitrary code execution, which could lead to system compromise or disruption of simulation activities. Arena® Simulation is widely used in industrial and manufacturing sectors for process modeling and simulation, making this vulnerability particularly relevant to organizations relying on these functions for operational planning and safety analysis.

The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations utilizing Arena® Simulation, especially those in manufacturing, industrial automation, and process engineering sectors. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to compromise system confidentiality by accessing sensitive simulation data, integrity by altering simulation results, and availability by crashing or disrupting the software. This could result in operational delays, incorrect decision-making based on corrupted simulations, or broader network compromise if the attacker escalates privileges or moves laterally. Given the local access requirement, insider threats or compromised endpoints are the most likely exploitation scenarios. The impact extends to safety-critical environments where simulation accuracy is paramount, potentially affecting compliance and regulatory requirements. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability details are widely known.

Organizations should implement strict controls on the handling and opening of DOE files within Arena® Simulation environments, limiting file sources to trusted origins only. Employ application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized execution of untrusted files. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. Network segmentation can isolate simulation workstations from broader corporate networks to limit lateral movement. Regularly back up simulation data and configurations to enable recovery in case of compromise. Since no official patch is currently available, coordinate with Rockwell Automation for updates and apply patches promptly once released. Conduct user training to raise awareness about the risks of opening untrusted DOE files. Consider running Arena® Simulation with the least privileges necessary to reduce potential impact. Finally, implement strict local access controls and monitor local user activities on systems running Arena® Simulation.