CVE-2025-1429 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025. The vulnerability arises when AutoCAD parses a maliciously crafted MODEL file, which can trigger an overflow condition on the heap memory. Heap-based buffer overflows occur when a program writes more data to a buffer located on the heap than it was allocated to hold, potentially overwriting adjacent memory. This can lead to unpredictable behavior including application crashes, leakage of sensitive information, or arbitrary code execution within the context of the AutoCAD process. Exploiting this vulnerability requires the victim to open or otherwise process the malicious MODEL file in AutoCAD. The vulnerability does not require prior authentication but does require user interaction to open the malicious file. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for exploitation exists given the ability to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability affects multiple recent versions of AutoCAD, a widely used CAD software in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing sectors. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting increases the risk exposure until Autodesk releases an update. The CWE classification 122 confirms the nature of the vulnerability as a heap-based buffer overflow, which is a common and serious memory corruption issue that attackers often leverage for remote code execution or denial of service attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, especially for those in industries heavily reliant on AutoCAD such as construction, engineering, manufacturing, and infrastructure development. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially allowing attackers to gain control over affected systems, exfiltrate intellectual property, or disrupt critical design workflows. This could result in operational downtime, financial losses, and damage to reputation. Additionally, if exploited in environments handling sensitive or regulated data (e.g., infrastructure blueprints or proprietary designs), it could lead to breaches of confidentiality and compliance violations under regulations like GDPR. The ability to cause application crashes also poses a risk to availability, potentially interrupting project timelines. Given the widespread use of AutoCAD across Europe, including in government and critical infrastructure projects, the vulnerability presents a tangible risk vector that could be targeted by cybercriminals or state-sponsored actors aiming to disrupt or spy on strategic assets.

1. Immediate mitigation should include restricting the opening of MODEL files from untrusted or unknown sources until a patch is available. 2. Implement strict file validation and sandboxing measures where possible to isolate AutoCAD processes and limit the impact of potential exploitation. 3. Employ network-level controls to monitor and block suspicious file transfers or email attachments containing MODEL files. 4. Maintain up-to-date backups of critical design files and system states to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise or data corruption. 5. Monitor AutoCAD application logs and system behavior for signs of crashes or anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts. 6. Engage with Autodesk’s security advisories and apply patches promptly once released. 7. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting heap overflow exploitation techniques. 8. Educate users on the risks of opening files from untrusted sources and enforce least privilege principles to limit the damage scope if exploitation occurs.