Horizon Alert
Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters
VMware Workspace ONE Access, Identity Manager, and vRealize Automation contain a vulnerability related to improper permissions in support scripts. This flaw can allow a malicious actor with local access to escalate their privileges to the highest level on the affected system. Such an escalation could lead to significant business risk if sensitive data or critical system functions are compromised.
- Vulnerable VMware products.
- Local privilege escalation flaw.
- Potential for unauthorized access.
Attack Path
How an attacker could exploit the issue
This vulnerability affects VMware products, allowing for privilege escalation. An attacker with existing local access to a system can exploit improper permissions in support scripts. This enables the attacker to gain root-level privileges, significantly increasing their control over the affected system and potentially impacting business operations and data security.
- Local access to the system is required.
- Attacker uses improper script permissions.
- Attacker escalates privileges to root.
Live Threat
Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context
A vulnerability exists in VMware products that allows a malicious actor with local access to escalate their privileges to administrative control. This could enable an attacker to gain significant control over affected systems. The vulnerability is categorized as high severity and is considered an internal threat, requiring an attacker to already have a foothold within the organization's network.
- Likely attacker skill: Moderate.
- Required access: Local system access.
- Business risk: High.
Priority actions
Operational Fix
Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps
This vulnerability impacts VMware products, including Workspace ONE Access, Identity Manager, and vRealize Automation. An attacker with local access could escalate privileges to gain root access, posing a significant risk to organizational data and systems. The issue stems from improper permissions within support scripts.
- Identify affected VMware assets.
- Isolate affected systems or reduce access.
- Apply vendor updates and verify.
- Monitor for related activity.
