CVE-2017-4901 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Fusion versions prior to specified versions could allow remote code execution.

Understanding CVE-2017-4901

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the drag-and-drop feature of VMware Workstation and Fusion, potentially enabling code execution.

What is CVE-2017-4901?

The vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Fusion versions prior to 12.5.4 and 8.5.5, respectively, allows for out-of-bounds memory access, enabling guest code execution on the host system.

The Impact of CVE-2017-4901

The vulnerability poses a risk of remote code execution, potentially allowing an attacker to execute malicious code on the host system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-4901

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The drag-and-drop feature in VMware Workstation and Fusion versions prior to the specified versions suffers from an out-of-bounds memory access vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Workstation Pro/Player
Vendor: VMware
Versions Affected: 12.x prior to 12.5.4
Product: Fusion Pro / Fusion
Vendor: VMware
Versions Affected: 8.x prior to 8.5.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by a guest to execute code on the operating system running Workstation or Fusion.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-4901 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update VMware Workstation and Fusion to the latest patched versions.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and applications.
Conduct security training for employees to recognize and report potential security threats.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.