CVE-2025-6634 is a high-severity buffer overflow vulnerability identified in Autodesk 3ds Max version 2026. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of TGA image files during the linking or importing process. Specifically, the software performs a buffer copy operation without verifying the size of the input data, leading to a classic buffer overflow (CWE-120). When a maliciously crafted TGA file is processed, it can cause memory corruption that attackers may exploit to execute arbitrary code within the context of the 3ds Max process. This means that an attacker could potentially run malicious code with the same privileges as the user running the application. The CVSS 3.1 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 requiring user interaction (UI:R). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is rated high, meaning successful exploitation could lead to full compromise of the affected system or data handled by 3ds Max. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, indicating that mitigation may rely on vendor updates or workarounds. The vulnerability is particularly critical for environments where 3ds Max is used to process untrusted or externally sourced TGA files, as this increases the risk of exploitation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-6634 could be significant, especially in industries relying heavily on Autodesk 3ds Max for 3D modeling, animation, and visualization such as media, entertainment, architecture, and manufacturing. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, potentially allowing attackers to steal intellectual property, disrupt workflows, or establish footholds within corporate networks. Given the high confidentiality and integrity impact, sensitive design files and proprietary models could be exposed or altered. The requirement for local access and user interaction somewhat limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in scenarios where users may be tricked into opening malicious TGA files received via email or downloaded from compromised sources. Additionally, compromised workstations could serve as entry points for lateral movement within enterprise networks. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but organizations should act swiftly to prevent exploitation.

1. Restrict the import or linking of TGA files from untrusted or unknown sources until a vendor patch is released. 2. Implement strict file validation and scanning policies for all image files before they are used in 3ds Max projects, including sandboxing or using antivirus solutions capable of detecting malformed TGA files. 3. Educate users on the risks of opening unverified TGA files and enforce policies to avoid opening files from suspicious emails or downloads. 4. Monitor and restrict local access to systems running Autodesk 3ds Max to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 5. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Regularly check Autodesk’s official channels for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 7. Consider isolating 3ds Max workstations in segmented network zones to limit potential lateral movement in case of compromise.