CVE-2020-3969 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

VMware ESXi, Workstation, and Fusion products are affected by an off-by-one heap-overflow vulnerability in the SVGA device, potentially allowing code execution on the hypervisor.

Understanding CVE-2020-3969

What is CVE-2020-3969?

CVE-2020-3969 is a heap-overflow vulnerability affecting VMware ESXi, Workstation, and Fusion products, enabling a local attacker to execute code on the hypervisor.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3969

The vulnerability could be exploited by a malicious actor with local access to a virtual machine with 3D graphics enabled, subject to specific conditions.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3969

Vulnerability Description

The off-by-one heap-overflow vulnerability in the SVGA device of VMware ESXi, Workstation, and Fusion products allows potential code execution on the hypervisor.

Affected Systems and Versions

VMware ESXi 7.0 before ESXi_7.0.0-1.20.16321839
VMware ESXi 6.7 before ESXi670-202004101-SG
VMware ESXi 6.5 before ESXi650-202005401-SG
VMware Workstation 15.x before 15.5.5
VMware Fusion 11.x before 11.5.5

Exploitation Mechanism

A local attacker with access to a virtual machine with 3D graphics enabled can potentially exploit the vulnerability to execute code on the hypervisor.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.
Disable 3D graphics if not essential for operations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch VMware products to mitigate potential security risks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security updates and patches released by VMware to protect against known vulnerabilities.