CVE-2020-3961 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

VMware Horizon Client for Windows (prior to 5.4.3) contains a privilege escalation vulnerability that allows a local user to run commands as any user.

Understanding CVE-2020-3961

This CVE identifies a privilege escalation vulnerability in VMware Horizon Client for Windows.

What is CVE-2020-3961?

CVE-2020-3961 is a security vulnerability in VMware Horizon Client for Windows (prior to 5.4.3) that arises from folder permission misconfiguration and unsafe library loading. It enables a local user to execute commands as any user on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3961

The vulnerability allows unauthorized users to escalate their privileges and potentially perform malicious actions on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3961

VMware Horizon Client for Windows (prior to 5.4.3) is susceptible to privilege escalation due to the following:

Vulnerability Description

Privilege escalation vulnerability caused by folder permission misconfiguration and unsafe library loading.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: VMware Horizon Client for Windows
Versions Affected: VMware Horizon Client for Windows (prior to 5.4.3)

Exploitation Mechanism

A local user on the system where the software is installed can exploit the misconfiguration to run commands as any user.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-3961, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update VMware Horizon Client for Windows to version 5.4.3 or later.
Restrict access to vulnerable systems.
Monitor system activity for any unauthorized actions.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.

Patching and Updates

VMware has released a fix in version 5.4.3 to address this vulnerability. Ensure timely installation of updates to protect against exploitation.