CVE-2017-4921 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-4921, a security flaw in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.5 and 6.5 U1 due to insecure library loading, potentially enabling privilege escalation. Find mitigation steps and patching details here.
VMware vCenter Server (6.5 prior to 6.5 U1) contains a vulnerability due to insecure library loading, potentially leading to privilege escalation.
Understanding CVE-2017-4921
What is CVE-2017-4921?
CVE-2017-4921 is a security vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.5 and 6.5 U1, caused by unsafe usage of the LD_LIBRARY_PATH variable.
The Impact of CVE-2017-4921
The exploitation of this vulnerability could allow unprivileged host users to load a shared library, leading to potential privilege escalation.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-4921
Vulnerability Description
- Insecure library loading issue in VMware vCenter Server
- Caused by unsafe utilization of the LD_LIBRARY_PATH variable
Affected Systems and Versions
- VMware vCenter Server versions 6.5 to 6.5 U1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Unprivileged host users can load a shared library
- Potential privilege escalation as a result
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches provided by VMware
- Monitor for any unauthorized library loading activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update VMware vCenter Server to the latest version
- Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user capabilities
Patching and Updates
- VMware has released patches to address this vulnerability
- Keep VMware vCenter Server up to date with the latest security fixes