CVE-2020-3941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2020-3941, a privilege escalation vulnerability in VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y due to a race condition during repair operation. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures.
VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y has a privilege escalation vulnerability due to a race condition during the repair operation.
Understanding CVE-2020-3941
This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y.
What is CVE-2020-3941?
The repair operation of VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y has a race condition that may lead to privilege escalation in the Virtual Machine where Tools is installed.
The Impact of CVE-2020-3941
The vulnerability allows an attacker to escalate privileges within the affected Virtual Machine.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-3941
CVE-2020-3941 involves the following technical aspects:
Vulnerability Description
The repair operation of VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y contains a race condition that enables privilege escalation.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: VMware Tools for Windows (VMware Tools)
- Vendor: VMware
- Affected Version: VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability arises during the repair operation of VMware Tools for Windows 10.x.y, allowing attackers to exploit the race condition for privilege escalation.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2020-3941, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to VMware Tools 11.x.y where the vulnerability is resolved.
- Monitor VMware security advisories for updates and patches.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update VMware Tools to the latest versions.
- Implement least privilege access controls within Virtual Machines.
Patching and Updates
- Apply patches and updates provided by VMware to mitigate the vulnerability.