CVE-2025-1427 is a vulnerability identified in Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025, caused by the use of an uninitialized variable (CWE-457) when parsing CATPRODUCT files. CATPRODUCT files are typically associated with assemblies or multi-part design files used in CAD environments. The vulnerability arises because AutoCAD improperly handles certain crafted CATPRODUCT files, leading to the use of variables that have not been initialized. This flaw can be exploited by a malicious actor who crafts a specially designed CATPRODUCT file and convinces a user to open it in AutoCAD. Exploitation can result in several adverse outcomes: a denial of service via application crash, unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information by reading unintended memory contents, or potentially arbitrary code execution within the context of the AutoCAD process. The arbitrary code execution vector is particularly concerning as it could allow an attacker to execute malicious payloads with the privileges of the user running AutoCAD, potentially leading to further compromise of the host system or lateral movement within a network. Notably, there are no known exploits in the wild at the time of this report, and no official patches have been released yet. However, the vulnerability has been recognized and reserved by Autodesk and is enriched by CISA, indicating its significance. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an independent severity assessment based on the technical details and potential impact.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-1427 can be significant, especially for those in industries heavily reliant on AutoCAD for design and engineering workflows, such as manufacturing, architecture, construction, and infrastructure development. A successful exploit could disrupt critical design processes by crashing AutoCAD, leading to productivity losses and project delays. More critically, if arbitrary code execution is achieved, attackers could gain footholds in corporate networks, potentially accessing intellectual property, design schematics, or sensitive client data. This could result in intellectual property theft, reputational damage, and regulatory compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is involved. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as entry points for broader attacks, including ransomware or espionage campaigns targeting European industrial sectors. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as threat actors often develop exploits rapidly after vulnerability disclosures. The medium severity rating suggests moderate risk, but the potential for code execution elevates the concern for organizations with high-value assets and sensitive design data.

Given the absence of official patches, European organizations should implement targeted mitigations beyond generic advice. First, restrict the handling of CATPRODUCT files to trusted sources only; implement strict file validation and scanning policies to detect and block suspicious or unsolicited CATPRODUCT files. Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to isolate AutoCAD processes, limiting the impact of potential exploitation. Enable enhanced logging and monitoring around AutoCAD usage to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Educate users, especially design and engineering teams, about the risks of opening files from untrusted or unknown origins. Network segmentation should be applied to CAD workstations to reduce lateral movement opportunities. Organizations should also prepare for rapid deployment of patches once Autodesk releases updates by establishing a robust vulnerability management process. Finally, consider using endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting exploitation techniques related to memory corruption and code execution.