CVE-2017-4922 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2017-4922, an information disclosure vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server (prior to 6.5 U1) allowing unauthorized access to critical information during service restarts. Find mitigation steps here.
An information disclosure vulnerability exists in VMware vCenter Server (prior to 6.5 U1) where the service startup script utilizes directories with world writable permissions as temporary storage for important data. Unauthorized host users could exploit this vulnerability to access critical information when the service is restarted.
Understanding CVE-2017-4922
This CVE involves an information disclosure issue in VMware vCenter Server.
What is CVE-2017-4922?
CVE-2017-4922 is an information disclosure vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server (prior to 6.5 U1) due to the use of world-writable directories by the service startup script.
The Impact of CVE-2017-4922
The vulnerability could allow unauthorized host users to access specific critical information during service restarts, potentially leading to data breaches and unauthorized access.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-4922
This section provides technical details of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
VMware vCenter Server (6.5 prior to 6.5 U1) contains an information disclosure issue as the service startup script uses world-writable directories for temporary storage of critical information.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: VMware vCenter Server
- Affected Version: Prior to 6.5 U1
Exploitation Mechanism
Unauthorized host users can exploit the vulnerability by accessing critical information stored in the world-writable directories during service restarts.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protect your systems from CVE-2017-4922 with the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by VMware promptly.
- Restrict access to vulnerable systems to authorized personnel only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit file permissions on critical directories.
- Implement the principle of least privilege to limit access to sensitive information.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that VMware vCenter Server is updated to version 6.5 U1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.