CVE-2025-1660 is a high-severity buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-120) found in Autodesk Navisworks Freedom 2025. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of DWFX files, where the software does not properly check the size of input data during a buffer copy operation. This classic buffer overflow flaw allows a maliciously crafted DWFX file to trigger memory corruption when parsed by the application. Exploiting this vulnerability enables an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability requires local access (Attack Vector: Local) and user interaction (UI required) to open or process the malicious DWFX file. No privileges are required to exploit it (PR:N), but the attacker must convince the user to open the crafted file. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for remote code execution via social engineering or phishing attacks delivering malicious DWFX files. Autodesk Navisworks Freedom is a widely used 3D design review tool in architecture, engineering, and construction industries, often employed to view and share project models. The vulnerability's exploitation could allow attackers to gain control over systems used for critical design and review workflows, potentially disrupting project timelines and compromising sensitive design data.

For European organizations, especially those in the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing sectors, this vulnerability could have severe consequences. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to proprietary design data, intellectual property theft, and disruption of project workflows. Given the critical role of Navisworks Freedom in collaborative design review processes, a successful attack could halt operations, cause financial losses, and damage reputations. Furthermore, the arbitrary code execution capability could be leveraged to deploy ransomware or other malware, amplifying the impact. European organizations handling sensitive infrastructure or government projects may face additional risks related to national security and regulatory compliance, including GDPR implications if personal data is involved. The requirement for user interaction means that phishing campaigns targeting employees with access to Navisworks Freedom files could be an effective attack vector, increasing the threat surface.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Immediately monitor Autodesk's official channels for patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-1660 and prioritize their deployment once available. 2) Until patches are released, restrict the use of Navisworks Freedom 2025 to trusted users and environments, and avoid opening DWFX files from unverified or external sources. 3) Implement strict email filtering and attachment scanning to detect and block malicious DWFX files in inbound communications. 4) Conduct targeted user awareness training focusing on the risks of opening unsolicited or suspicious DWFX files, emphasizing social engineering tactics. 5) Employ application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the execution context of Navisworks Freedom, reducing the impact of potential exploitation. 6) Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 7) Review and tighten access controls around systems running Navisworks Freedom to limit exposure. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling the attack vector (malicious DWFX files) and hardening the environment while awaiting official patches.