CVE-2025-15538 is a use-after-free vulnerability identified in the Open Asset Import Library (Assimp), a widely used open-source library for importing various 3D model formats. The vulnerability resides in the function Assimp::LWOImporter::FindUVChannels within the LWOMaterial.cpp source file. This function improperly manages memory, leading to a use-after-free condition when processing LWO (LightWave Object) files. The flaw can be triggered by a local attacker with limited privileges (PR:L) without requiring user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability’s CVSS 4.8 score reflects its medium severity, considering the attack vector is local and exploitation complexity is low. The impact includes potential memory corruption, which can cause application crashes or potentially allow execution of arbitrary code depending on the context. The vulnerability affects Assimp versions 6.0.0, 6.0.1, and 6.0.2. Although no public patches have been linked yet, the issue is tracked under issue #6128 in the project’s repository. The vulnerability is relevant for any software that integrates Assimp for 3D asset importation, including CAD tools, game engines, and visualization software. Since the attack requires local access, remote exploitation is not feasible without prior system compromise. The flaw highlights the importance of secure memory management in libraries handling complex file formats.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-15538 depends on the extent to which they rely on Assimp-integrated software for 3D asset processing. Industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, gaming, and digital media production are likely users of such tools. Exploitation could lead to denial of service via application crashes or potentially local privilege escalation if combined with other vulnerabilities, impacting system stability and security. This could disrupt design workflows, delay product development, or compromise sensitive intellectual property. Since the attack requires local access, insider threats or compromised endpoints pose the greatest risk. The medium severity indicates moderate risk but should not be ignored, especially in environments with high-value 3D asset processing. Additionally, compromised systems could be leveraged as footholds for further attacks within corporate networks. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate urgency but proactive mitigation is advised.

1. Monitor the Assimp project repository and security advisories for official patches addressing issue #6128 and apply updates promptly once available. 2. Until patches are released, restrict local access to systems running vulnerable versions of Assimp to trusted users only. 3. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection to detect and prevent exploitation attempts involving local memory corruption. 4. Conduct code audits and implement additional input validation and memory safety checks when integrating Assimp into custom software. 5. Use sandboxing or containerization to isolate applications processing untrusted 3D assets, limiting the impact of potential exploitation. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of opening untrusted 3D files locally. 7. Maintain up-to-date backups and incident response plans to recover quickly from potential denial of service or compromise scenarios. 8. Consider alternative libraries or versions if immediate patching is not feasible and risk is high.