CVE-2021-40158 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides insights into CVE-2021-40158, focusing on understanding the vulnerability, its impacts, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2021-40158

CVE-2021-40158 is a vulnerability found in Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD software versions 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, where a maliciously crafted JT file could lead to code execution due to reading beyond allocated boundaries during file parsing.

What is CVE-2021-40158?

The vulnerability occurs in Autodesk software when processing a specially crafted JT file, which, when combined with other vulnerabilities, may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code within the current process.

The Impact of CVE-2021-40158

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in potential code execution within the context of the affected software, posing a significant security risk to users and organizations utilizing these Autodesk products.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40158

CVE-2021-40158 involves the following technical aspects:

Vulnerability Description

A maliciously crafted JT file in Autodesk Inventor 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and AutoCAD 2022 could trigger out-of-bounds read vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Autodesk
Product: Inventor, AutoCAD
Affected Versions: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability arises when parsing JT files, leading to reading data beyond the intended boundaries, potentially enabling an attacker to execute malicious code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Upon identifying CVE-2021-40158, the following measures are recommended:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Autodesk software to the latest patched versions.
Employ network segmentation to isolate vulnerable systems.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security updates and patches across all software and systems.
Conduct security training and awareness programs for employees.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches released by Autodesk to address the identified vulnerability.