CVE-2025-49571 is an Uncontrolled Search Path Element vulnerability (CWE-427) affecting Adobe Substance3D - Modeler versions 1.22.0 and earlier. The vulnerability arises because the application relies on an insecure search path to locate critical resources such as executable programs or libraries. An attacker with local access can manipulate this search path—often through environment variables or directory structures—to redirect the application to load and execute malicious code instead of legitimate resources. This leads to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the current user. The vulnerability does not require user interaction, increasing the risk of silent exploitation. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity but requiring local access. No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, but the risk remains significant due to the potential for privilege escalation and system compromise. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure path handling and environment sanitization in software design, especially for applications that load external resources dynamically.

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the logged-in user, potentially leading to full system compromise depending on user privileges. Confidential data could be exposed or altered, and system integrity could be undermined by installing persistent malware or backdoors. Availability could also be affected if malicious code disrupts application or system operations. Since the attack requires local access but no user interaction, it is particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users share systems or where attackers have gained limited footholds. Creative attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges or move laterally within networks. Organizations relying on Adobe Substance3D - Modeler for digital content creation or design workflows may face operational disruptions and intellectual property theft if targeted.

Until an official patch is released, organizations should implement strict controls on environment variables and directory permissions to prevent unauthorized modification of search paths used by Substance3D - Modeler. Running the application with least privilege and avoiding execution under administrative accounts reduces risk. Employ application whitelisting and integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to executable paths or binaries. Isolate systems running Substance3D - Modeler from untrusted users and networks to limit local access. Educate users about the risks of running untrusted code or scripts that could alter environment variables. Monitor logs for suspicious activity related to process execution or path changes. Once Adobe releases a patch, prioritize timely deployment. Consider using containerization or sandboxing to further restrict the application's environment and resource access.