CVE-2017-4904 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in VMware products could allow unauthorized code execution on the host system.

Understanding CVE-2017-4904

What is CVE-2017-4904?

The XHCI controller in various VMware products contains a vulnerability related to uninitialized memory usage, potentially enabling a guest to run code on the host system.

The Impact of CVE-2017-4904

This vulnerability could lead to remote code execution or denial of service (DoS) attacks on affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-4904

Vulnerability Description

The XHCI controller in VMware ESXi versions 6.5, 6.0 U3, 6.0 U2, 6.0 U1, and 5.5, as well as Workstation Pro / Player 12.x prior to 12.5.5, and Fusion Pro / Fusion 8.x prior to 8.5.6, is susceptible to uninitialized memory usage.

Affected Systems and Versions

VMware ESXi 6.5 without patch ESXi650-201703410-SG
VMware ESXi 6.0 U3 without patch ESXi600-201703401-SG
VMware ESXi 6.0 U2 without patch ESXi600-201703403-SG
VMware ESXi 6.0 U1 without patch ESXi600-201703402-SG
VMware ESXi 5.5 without patch ESXi550-201703401-SG
Workstation Pro / Player 12.x prior to 12.5.5
Fusion Pro / Fusion 8.x prior to 8.5.6

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows a guest to potentially execute code on the host system, posing a significant security risk.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary patches provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.
Monitor VMware security advisories for updates and follow best security practices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update VMware products to the latest versions to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address any security gaps.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches released by VMware to protect systems from exploitation.