CVE-2020-4005 : What You Need to Know

VMware ESXi (7.0 before ESXi70U1b-17168206, 6.7 before ESXi670-202011101-SG, 6.5 before ESXi650-202011301-SG) contains a privilege-escalation vulnerability that allows a malicious actor to escalate their privileges on the affected system.

Understanding CVE-2020-4005

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in VMware ESXi.

What is CVE-2020-4005?

CVE-2020-4005 is a privilege-escalation vulnerability in VMware ESXi versions 7.0, 6.7, and 6.5, allowing an attacker to elevate their privileges within the VMX process.

The Impact of CVE-2020-4005

The vulnerability enables a malicious actor with privileges within the VMX process to escalate their privileges on the affected system. Successful exploitation requires chaining with another vulnerability.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-4005

VMware ESXi privilege escalation vulnerability details.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the mismanagement of certain system calls, leading to privilege escalation within the VMX process.

Affected Systems and Versions

VMware ESXi 7.0 before ESXi70U1b-17168206
VMware ESXi 6.7 before ESXi670-202011101-SG
VMware ESXi 6.5 before ESXi650-202011301-SG

Exploitation Mechanism

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability is only possible when combined with another vulnerability, such as CVE-2020-4004.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-4005.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply patches provided by VMware promptly.
Monitor VMware security advisories for updates.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege for user accounts.
Regularly update and patch VMware ESXi installations.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates from VMware.