CVE-2017-4940 : What You Need to Know

The VMware ESXi Host Client in versions 6.5, 6.0, and 5.5 before specific patches is vulnerable to stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.

Understanding CVE-2017-4940

This CVE involves a security flaw in the VMware ESXi Host Client that could be exploited by attackers to execute malicious scripts.

What is CVE-2017-4940?

The vulnerability in the VMware ESXi Host Client allows an attacker to inject JavaScript, potentially leading to the execution of malicious code when other users interact with the Host Client.

The Impact of CVE-2017-4940

This vulnerability could result in stored cross-site scripting attacks, enabling malicious actors to compromise the integrity of the ESXi Host Client and potentially execute unauthorized code.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-4940

The following are the technical details of the CVE-2017-4940 vulnerability:

Vulnerability Description

The ESXi Host Client in VMware ESXi versions 6.5, 6.0, and 5.5 before specific patches contains a flaw that allows for stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ESXi
Vendor: VMware
Affected Versions:
ESXi 6.5 before ESXi650-201712103-SG
ESXi 6.0 before ESXi600-201711103-SG
ESXi 5.5 before ESXi550-201709102-SG

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by injecting malicious JavaScript code, which may execute when other users access the Host Client.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-4940, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security patches provided by VMware.
Monitor and restrict access to the ESXi Host Client to trusted users only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software components to prevent known vulnerabilities.
Implement security training for users to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches released by VMware to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks.