CVE-2019-5534 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-5534, an information disclosure vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.7.x, 6.5, and 6.0. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation, and mitigation steps.
An information disclosure vulnerability has been identified in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.7.x prior to 6.7 U3, 6.5 prior to 6.5 U3, and 6.0 prior to 6.0 U3j. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to access login information from Virtual Machines deployed from an OVF, potentially exposing sensitive credentials.
Understanding CVE-2019-5534
This CVE pertains to an information disclosure vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.7.x, 6.5, and 6.0, where login information from Virtual Machines deployed from an OVF can be exposed.
What is CVE-2019-5534?
The vulnerability arises when Virtual Machines expose login information through the vAppConfig properties, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive credentials.
The Impact of CVE-2019-5534
The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to critical login information, including root account credentials of the virtual machine.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-5534
This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server versions 6.7.x, 6.5, and 6.0 allows malicious actors to view login credentials by querying the vAppConfig properties of Virtual Machines deployed from an OVF.
Affected Systems and Versions
- VMware vCenter Server 6.7 prior to 6.7 U3
- VMware vCenter Server 6.5 prior to 6.5 U3
- VMware vCenter Server 6.0 prior to 6.0 U3j
Exploitation Mechanism
Malicious individuals can exploit this vulnerability by gaining access to query the vAppConfig properties of a virtual machine deployed from an OVF, potentially exposing sensitive login information.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-5534 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply the necessary security patches provided by VMware to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Monitor and restrict access to vAppConfig properties to prevent unauthorized queries.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch VMware vCenter Server to address security vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts.
Patching and Updates
- VMware has released patches to address the vulnerability in affected versions. Ensure timely application of these patches to secure the environment.