CVE-2019-5531 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2019-5531, an information disclosure vulnerability in VMware vSphere ESXi and vCenter Server, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information. Find out how to mitigate this security risk.
A vulnerability in VMware vSphere ESXi and VMware vCenter Server could lead to unauthorized information disclosure due to inadequate session expiration, potentially allowing attackers to gain control of a VM Console.
Understanding CVE-2019-5531
What is CVE-2019-5531?
CVE-2019-5531 is an information disclosure vulnerability affecting VMware vSphere ESXi and VMware vCenter Server, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The Impact of CVE-2019-5531
The vulnerability could result in the disclosure of information to unauthorized clients, enabling attackers to take control of a VM Console even after a user has logged out or their session has expired.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-5531
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from a lack of proper session expiration in VMware vSphere ESXi and VMware vCenter Server, potentially leading to unauthorized information disclosure.
Affected Systems and Versions
- VMware vSphere ESXi 6.7 prior to ESXi670-201810101-SG
- VMware vSphere ESXi 6.5 prior to ESXi650-201811102-SG
- VMware vSphere ESXi 6.0 prior to ESXi600-201807103-SG
- VMware vCenter Server 6.7 prior to 6.7 U1b
- VMware vCenter Server 6.5 prior to 6.5 U2b
- VMware vCenter Server 6.0 prior to 6.0 U3j
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with physical access or the ability to mimic a websocket connection to a user's browser can exploit the vulnerability to gain control of a VM Console.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary security patches provided by VMware.
- Monitor and restrict physical access to systems running VMware vSphere ESXi and VMware vCenter Server.
- Implement network segmentation to limit unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch VMware products to address security vulnerabilities.
- Educate users on secure session management practices to prevent unauthorized access.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that VMware vSphere ESXi and VMware vCenter Server are updated to the latest versions to mitigate the vulnerability.