#VU56804 Incorrect default permissions in vCenter Server - CVE-2021-22015

Vulnerability identifier: #VU56804

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv4.0: 8.5 [CVSS:4.0/AV:L/AC:L/AT:N/PR:L/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:N/SI:N/SA:N/E:A/U:Clear]

CVE-ID: CVE-2021-22015

CWE-ID: CWE-276

Exploitation vector: Local

Exploit availability: Yes

Vulnerable software:
vCenter Server
Server applications / Virtualization software

Vendor: VMware, Inc

Description

The vulnerability allows a local user to escalate privileges on the system.

The vulnerability exists due to incorrect default permissions for files and folders that are set by the system. A local user with access to the system can escalate privilege to root on vCenter Server Appliance.

Mitigation
Install updates from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

vCenter Server: 6.5 U1 - 7.0.0

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External links
https://www.vmware.com/security/advisories/VMSA-2021-0020.html

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Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

No. This vulnerability can be exploited locally. The attacker should have authentication credentials and successfully authenticate on the system.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, a fully functional exploit for this vulnerability is available.