CVE-2020-3992 VMware ESXi: memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline May 3, 2022
What to do
- Install VMware's security update for ESXi. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Keep a list of every internet-facing server you run so nothing is forgotten.
- Patch anything in this catalog first, ahead of normal patch cycles.
- Put admin and file-transfer apps behind a VPN or single sign-on instead of the open internet.
Who is affected
Work IT. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.
What's at risk: Mass data theft and ransomware: a single flaw in a file-transfer or email server has exposed thousands of organisations at once.
The details
- Official name
- VMware ESXi OpenSLP Use-After-Free Vulnerability
- Product
- VMware ESXi
- CISA description
- VMware ESXi OpenSLP contains a use-after-free vulnerability that allows an attacker residing in the management network with access to port 427 to perform remote code execution.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-416)
- Confirmed exploited
- Nov 3, 2021 — known to be used in ransomware attacks
- US federal patch deadline
- May 3, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2020-3992 ·
Questions about CVE-2020-3992
Is CVE-2020-3992 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2020-3992 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Nov 3, 2021, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks, including by ransomware groups.
How do I fix CVE-2020-3992?
Install VMware's security update for ESXi. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Keep a list of every internet-facing server you run so nothing is forgotten.
Am I affected by CVE-2020-3992?
Only if you use VMware ESXi. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.