CVE-2025-4605 is a vulnerability identified in Autodesk's USD for Maya, specifically affecting version 0.31.0. The issue stems from improper handling of memory allocation when processing .usdc files, which are part of the Universal Scene Description (USD) format used for 3D scene representation. A maliciously crafted .usdc file can trigger an uncontrolled memory allocation due to excessive size values, classified under CWE-789 (Memory Allocation with Excessive Size Value). This can lead to denial-of-service (DoS) conditions by exhausting system memory or potentially cause data corruption if the memory handling leads to overwrites or instability. The vulnerability requires local access (attack vector: local) and user interaction (loading the malicious file) but does not require privileges or authentication. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.6 (medium severity), reflecting the moderate impact on confidentiality and integrity (both low), but a high impact on availability due to possible DoS. No known exploits are reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is significant in environments where Autodesk Maya is used for 3D modeling and animation workflows, especially where untrusted or external .usdc files might be loaded without proper validation or sandboxing.

For European organizations, especially those in media, entertainment, animation, and design sectors that rely on Autodesk Maya and USD workflows, this vulnerability poses a risk of service disruption and potential data integrity issues. A successful exploitation could halt production pipelines by crashing Maya or corrupting project files, leading to operational delays and financial losses. While the confidentiality impact is low, the availability impact is high, which can be critical in time-sensitive creative environments. Organizations handling external content or collaborating with third parties are at higher risk if malicious .usdc files are introduced. Additionally, if exploited in environments with shared resources or networked rendering farms, the DoS effect could cascade, affecting multiple users or systems. Given the local attack vector and need for user interaction, the threat is more relevant to insider threats or targeted attacks rather than remote mass exploitation. However, the lack of patches increases the urgency for mitigation.

European organizations should implement strict file validation and sandboxing when importing .usdc files into Autodesk Maya. Restrict the use of untrusted or external .usdc files and enforce strict access controls to limit who can load such files. Employ endpoint protection solutions that monitor for abnormal memory usage or application crashes related to Maya processes. Regularly update and monitor Autodesk Maya installations for vendor patches or security advisories addressing this vulnerability. Consider isolating Maya workstations from critical network segments to contain potential DoS impacts. Additionally, educate users on the risks of opening unverified .usdc files and establish workflows that include scanning and verifying 3D assets before use. If possible, use virtualized or containerized environments for running Maya to limit the blast radius of any exploitation. Finally, maintain robust backup and recovery procedures to mitigate data corruption consequences.