CVE-2025-1651 is a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Autodesk AutoCAD versions 2022 through 2025. This vulnerability arises when AutoCAD parses a maliciously crafted MODEL file. Specifically, the flaw is due to improper handling of data during the parsing process, which leads to a heap-based buffer overflow (CWE-122). An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by convincing a user to open or import a specially crafted MODEL file within AutoCAD. Successful exploitation can result in several adverse outcomes: causing the application to crash (denial of service), reading sensitive memory contents (potential data leakage), or executing arbitrary code with the privileges of the current user running AutoCAD. The vulnerability does not require prior authentication but does require user interaction to open or process the malicious file. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and Autodesk has not yet released patches or mitigations. Given the nature of AutoCAD as a widely used CAD software in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing sectors, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations relying on these workflows. The heap-based overflow indicates that the attacker can manipulate memory beyond intended boundaries, which often leads to control over program execution flow, making remote code execution feasible under the right conditions. The vulnerability was reserved and disclosed in early 2025, with enriched analysis from CISA, indicating its recognition by cybersecurity authorities.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-1651 can be substantial, especially for those in critical infrastructure sectors such as manufacturing, construction, engineering, and design firms that rely heavily on AutoCAD for their operations. Exploitation could lead to operational disruptions through application crashes, potentially delaying project timelines and causing financial losses. More critically, the ability to execute arbitrary code could allow attackers to deploy malware, move laterally within networks, or exfiltrate intellectual property and sensitive design data. This is particularly concerning for companies involved in defense, aerospace, and automotive industries, where design confidentiality is paramount. Additionally, compromised systems could serve as entry points for broader network intrusions, increasing the risk of ransomware or espionage campaigns. Given that AutoCAD is often used on workstations connected to corporate networks, the vulnerability could affect not only individual users but also the wider organizational IT environment. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as proof-of-concept exploits could emerge rapidly once the vulnerability is public. The medium severity rating suggests moderate risk, but the potential for arbitrary code execution elevates the threat profile significantly in sensitive environments.

To mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2025-1651, European organizations should implement the following specific actions: 1) Immediately audit and inventory all AutoCAD installations to identify affected versions (2022-2025). 2) Until official patches are released, restrict the opening of MODEL files from untrusted or unknown sources by implementing strict file handling policies and user training to recognize suspicious files. 3) Utilize application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the impact of potential exploitation, such as running AutoCAD within isolated environments or virtual machines where feasible. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions with behavioral analytics to detect anomalous AutoCAD process behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 5) Enforce the principle of least privilege by ensuring users running AutoCAD do not have administrative rights, limiting the scope of code execution. 6) Monitor network traffic for unusual outbound connections from workstations running AutoCAD, which could indicate exploitation or data exfiltration. 7) Coordinate with Autodesk for timely updates and subscribe to official security advisories to apply patches immediately upon release. 8) Consider implementing file integrity monitoring on directories where MODEL files are stored or processed to detect unauthorized changes. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling file sources, isolating the application environment, and enhancing detection capabilities tailored to this specific vulnerability.