CVE-2020-3974 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

VMware Fusion (11.x before 11.5.5), VMware Remote Console for Mac (11.x and prior before 11.2.0), and Horizon Client for Mac (5.x and prior before 5.4.3) contain a privilege escalation vulnerability due to improper XPC Client validation. This could allow attackers with normal user privileges to escalate to root on the affected system.

Understanding CVE-2020-3974

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

What is CVE-2020-3974?

CVE-2020-3974 is a security vulnerability in VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac that could be exploited by attackers to elevate their privileges on the system.

The Impact of CVE-2020-3974

The successful exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers with regular user privileges to gain root access on the compromised system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-3974

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper XPC Client validation in VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Products: VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, Horizon Client for Mac
Vulnerable Versions: VMware Fusion (11.x before 11.5.5), VMware Remote Console for Mac (11.x and prior before 11.2.0), Horizon Client for Mac (5.x and prior before 5.4.3)

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with normal user privileges can exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges to root on systems running the affected VMware products.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-3974 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the necessary security patches provided by VMware promptly.
Monitor VMware's security advisories for updates and follow recommended security best practices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights.
Regularly update and patch all software and applications to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that VMware Fusion, VMware Remote Console for Mac, and Horizon Client for Mac are updated to the latest versions that contain fixes for CVE-2020-3974.