CVE-2017-4949 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability has been detected in the VMware NAT service within VMware Workstation and Fusion, potentially allowing code execution on the host machine when IPv6 mode is activated.

Understanding CVE-2017-4949

A use-after-free vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Fusion could be exploited by a guest to execute code on the host machine.

What is CVE-2017-4949?

The vulnerability exists in the VMware NAT service when IPv6 mode is enabled, posing a risk of code execution by a guest on the host machine.

The Impact of CVE-2017-4949

Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized code execution on the host machine.
IPv6 mode for VMNAT is not enabled by default, but if activated, it could expose the system to potential attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-4949

A use-after-free vulnerability in VMware Workstation and Fusion's NAT service when IPv6 mode is enabled.

Vulnerability Description

Vulnerability Type: Use-after-free
Affected Products: Workstation Pro / Player, Fusion

Affected Systems and Versions

Workstation Pro / Player: 14.x before 14.1.1, 12.x before 12.5.9
Fusion: 10.x before 10.1.1, 8.x before 8.5.10

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation involves leveraging the use-after-free vulnerability in the VMware NAT service when IPv6 mode is activated.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2017-4949 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable IPv6 mode for VMNAT if not required.
Apply the necessary patches provided by VMware.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update VMware Workstation and Fusion to the latest versions.
Implement network segmentation to minimize the impact of potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

VMware released patches to address the vulnerability; ensure timely installation of these updates.