CVE-2025-1428 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-125, an Out-of-Bounds Read flaw, which occurs when AutoCAD parses a specially crafted CATPART file. This malformed file can trigger an out-of-bounds read condition, allowing an attacker to read memory beyond the intended buffer boundaries. The consequences of exploiting this vulnerability include causing the AutoCAD process to crash (denial of service), unauthorized reading of sensitive data from memory, or potentially executing arbitrary code within the context of the AutoCAD process. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with attack vector local (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but requiring user interaction (UI:R). The scope is unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). This means that an attacker with local access who can trick a user into opening a malicious CATPART file can exploit this vulnerability without needing prior authentication or elevated privileges. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of AutoCAD in engineering, architecture, and design sectors. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate attention to mitigation strategies to reduce exposure.

For European organizations, especially those in sectors relying heavily on CAD software such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, construction, and infrastructure, this vulnerability presents a critical risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of intellectual property, design schematics, and sensitive project data, which could have severe financial and reputational consequences. The ability to execute arbitrary code could allow attackers to establish persistence, move laterally within networks, or deploy ransomware and other malware. Given the collaborative nature of CAD workflows, compromised systems could serve as entry points into broader corporate networks. Additionally, disruption caused by crashes could delay project timelines and impact operational continuity. The requirement for user interaction means phishing or social engineering campaigns targeting employees who handle CAD files could be effective attack vectors. European organizations must consider the regulatory implications of data breaches under GDPR, which could result in significant fines and legal challenges if sensitive data is exposed.

Beyond generic advice, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Restrict AutoCAD usage to trusted users and environments, employing application whitelisting and strict file handling policies to prevent opening untrusted CATPART files. 2) Employ network segmentation to isolate systems running AutoCAD from critical infrastructure and sensitive data repositories to limit lateral movement in case of compromise. 3) Enhance user awareness training focused on recognizing phishing attempts and suspicious file attachments related to CAD workflows. 4) Monitor and log AutoCAD process behavior and file access patterns to detect anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Utilize endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with capabilities to detect out-of-bounds memory access or unusual process crashes. 6) Coordinate with Autodesk for timely patch deployment once available and consider temporary use of alternative CAD tools or versions not affected if feasible. 7) Implement strict privilege management, ensuring users operate with least privilege and avoid running AutoCAD with administrative rights. 8) Conduct regular backups of CAD project files and system states to enable recovery in case of disruption or compromise.