CVE-2017-4936 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2017-4936, a vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Horizon View Client for Windows, allowing code execution or Denial of Service attacks. Find mitigation steps and affected versions here.
A vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Horizon View Client for Windows could allow for code execution or Denial of Service attacks.
Understanding CVE-2017-4936
This CVE involves an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in VMware products.
What is CVE-2017-4936?
CVE-2017-4936 is a security vulnerability found in VMware Workstation and Horizon View Client for Windows, allowing potential malicious code execution or Denial of Service attacks.
The Impact of CVE-2017-4936
The vulnerability could enable a guest to run malicious code or cause a Denial of Service on the host Windows OS for Workstation. Similarly, for Horizon View Client, it could allow a View desktop to execute code or cause a Denial of Service on the host Windows OS.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-4936
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability is an out-of-bounds read issue in the JPEG2000 parser within the TPView.dll of VMware Workstation and Horizon View Client for Windows.
Affected Systems and Versions
- VMware Workstation versions 12.x before 12.5.8
- Horizon View Client for Windows versions 4.x before 4.6.1
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploiting this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute malicious code or trigger a Denial of Service attack on the affected systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2017-4936 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary patches provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.
- Consider restricting access to potentially vulnerable systems.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch VMware products to prevent security vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit the impact of potential attacks.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that VMware Workstation is updated to version 12.5.8 or later, and Horizon View Client for Windows is updated to version 4.6.1 or above to mitigate the CVE-2017-4936 vulnerability.