CVE-2020-3950 : What You Need to Know

VMware Fusion (11.x before 11.5.2), VMware Remote Console for Mac (11.x and prior before 11.0.1), and Horizon Client for Mac (5.x and prior before 5.4.0) contain a privilege escalation vulnerability due to improper use of setuid binaries. This could allow attackers with normal user privileges to elevate their privileges to root on the affected system.

Understanding CVE-2020-3950

This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac.

What is CVE-2020-3950?

CVE-2020-3950 is a security vulnerability in VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac that could be exploited by attackers to gain root privileges on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3950

The successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized users escalating their privileges to root level on the compromised system, potentially resulting in further malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3950

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the improper use of setuid binaries in VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac, allowing privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Products: VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, Horizon Client for Mac
Vulnerable Versions: VMware Fusion (11.x before 11.5.2), VMware Remote Console for Mac (11.x and prior before 11.0.1), Horizon Client for Mac (5.x and prior before 5.4.0)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with normal user privileges can exploit this vulnerability to gain root access on the system where the affected VMware products are installed.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3950 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the recommended patches provided by VMware to address the vulnerability.
Monitor for any unusual activities on the system that could indicate exploitation of the privilege escalation flaw.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and applications to prevent security vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and minimize the impact of potential breaches.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac are updated to the latest secure versions to mitigate the privilege escalation risk.