CVE-2025-1659 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Autodesk Navisworks Freedom 2025, a widely used software for viewing and reviewing 3D design models, particularly in architecture, engineering, and construction industries. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-125, an Out-of-Bounds (OOB) Read flaw, which occurs when the software improperly handles memory boundaries while parsing DWFX files, a proprietary format used by Autodesk for sharing design data. When a maliciously crafted DWFX file is opened in Navisworks Freedom, the OOB read can lead to several critical impacts: the application may crash (denial of service), sensitive memory contents could be exposed (confidentiality breach), or, in the worst case, arbitrary code execution may be achieved within the context of the current user process. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects a high severity, with the vector indicating local attack vector (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), but user interaction is necessary (UI:R). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), and the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and impact potential make it a significant risk, especially in environments where Navisworks Freedom is used to review untrusted or external DWFX files. The absence of a patch link suggests that remediation may require vendor updates or workarounds once available. Given the software’s role in critical design workflows, exploitation could lead to disruption of project timelines, leakage of sensitive design data, or compromise of user systems.

For European organizations, particularly those in the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing sectors, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Navisworks Freedom is commonly used to review complex 3D models and project designs, often containing proprietary or sensitive intellectual property. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of confidential design data, potentially impacting competitive advantage and violating data protection regulations such as GDPR. Additionally, arbitrary code execution could allow attackers to establish persistence, move laterally within networks, or deploy ransomware, severely disrupting business operations. The requirement for user interaction (opening a malicious DWFX file) means that social engineering or phishing campaigns could be leveraged to deliver the exploit, increasing the attack surface. Given the criticality of construction and infrastructure projects in Europe, successful exploitation could delay projects, cause financial losses, and damage reputations. Furthermore, the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability underscores the need for urgent attention to this vulnerability in environments where Navisworks Freedom is deployed.

1. Restrict the use of Autodesk Navisworks Freedom 2025 to trusted users and environments, minimizing exposure to untrusted DWFX files. 2. Implement strict file validation and sandboxing measures where possible, such as opening DWFX files in isolated virtual machines or containers to contain potential exploitation. 3. Educate users on the risks of opening DWFX files from unknown or unverified sources to reduce the likelihood of successful social engineering attacks. 4. Monitor network and endpoint logs for unusual application crashes or suspicious behavior related to Navisworks Freedom processes, enabling early detection of exploitation attempts. 5. Coordinate with Autodesk for timely updates or patches; if unavailable, consider temporarily disabling DWFX file support or using alternative software for viewing until a fix is released. 6. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block anomalous code execution patterns associated with exploitation attempts. 7. Regularly back up critical project data and maintain incident response plans tailored to software supply chain and design tool compromises.