CVE-2024-37086: VMware Cloud Foundation DoS Vulnerability

CVE-2024-37086 Overview

VMware ESXi contains an out-of-bounds read vulnerability. A
malicious actor with local administrative privileges on a virtual
machine with an existing snapshot may trigger an out-of-bounds read
leading to a denial-of-service condition of the host.

Critical Impact
This vulnerability can lead to a denial-of-service condition on the host system.

Affected Products

VMware Cloud Foundation
VMware ESXi 7.0
VMware ESXi 8.0

Discovery Timeline

2024-06-25 - CVE CVE-2024-37086 published to NVD
2025-06-27 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-37086

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of memory boundaries, allowing an out-of-bounds read when processing certain crafted inputs within a virtual machine.

Root Cause

The root cause is an insufficient boundary check in the memory handling mechanism associated with snapshot management.

Attack Vector

An attacker must have local administrative privileges on a virtual machine with an existing snapshot to exploit this vulnerability.

cpp

// Example exploitation code (sanitized)
#include <iostream>

void exploitSnapshot() {
    // Simulated snapshot read operation without proper bounds check
    char buffer[256];
    // Vulnerable function call
    readSnapshotData(buffer);
    std::cout << "Exploit executed!" << std::endl;
}

void readSnapshotData(char *buffer) {
    // Intentionally missing bounds check
    strcpy(buffer, "ATTACKCODE");
}

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-37086

Indicators of Compromise

Unusual snapshot reads with high CPU usage
Unexpected system reboots
Empty or malformed snapshot files

Detection Strategies

Utilize endpoint detection tools that monitor system calls related to memory access and snapshot changes. Look for anomalous activity patterns that deviate from normal operations.

Monitoring Recommendations

Regularly audit logs for anomalies in snapshot operations. Implement strict access controls and monitoring for administrative actions within VMware environments.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-37086

Immediate Actions Required

Apply the latest security patches provided by VMware
Limit administrative privileges to essential personnel
Monitor for unusual activity related to snapshots

Patch Information

The security patches for this vulnerability can be obtained from VMware's official advisory pages. Regular updates will significantly reduce the risk of exploitation.

Workarounds

If patching is not immediately possible, consider disabling snapshot functionality temporarily and closely monitor the system.

bash

# Configuration example
vmware-vim-cmd vmsvc/snapshot.removeAll <vmid>