How to remediate – VMware Workstation Detection

1. Introduction

VMware Workstation Detection identifies instances where VMware Workstation, an OS virtualization application, is installed on a remote host. This matters because virtualisation software can introduce security risks if not managed correctly. Systems commonly affected are desktop computers and laptops used by developers, testers or users requiring multiple operating environments. A successful attack could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of both the host system and any guest virtual machines running within it.

2. Technical Explanation

VMware Workstation allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine. This is achieved through hardware virtualization features but requires software components installed directly onto the host OS. Exploitation typically involves vulnerabilities within the VMware Workstation application itself, which could allow an attacker to gain control of the virtual machine or even the underlying host system. Preconditions include having access to the vulnerable VMware Workstation installation and being able to execute code on it.

• Root cause: The presence of the OS virtualization software introduces a potential attack surface.
• Exploit mechanism: An attacker could exploit vulnerabilities in VMware Workstation to escape the virtual machine sandbox and gain access to the host operating system. This might involve exploiting buffer overflows or other memory corruption issues within the application.
• Scope: Affected platforms are Windows, Linux, and macOS systems with VMware Workstation installed. Specific versions depend on known vulnerabilities; consult the vendor for details.

3. Detection and Assessment

Confirming a VMware Workstation installation can be done through several methods. A quick check involves looking at the list of installed programs. A more thorough method is to examine running processes and file system locations.

• Quick checks: Check the ‘Programs and Features’ control panel in Windows, or use package managers on Linux (e.g., dpkg -l | grep vmware).
• Scanning: Nessus plugin ID 16879 can detect VMware Workstation installations. This is an example only; results may vary.
• Logs and evidence: Look for VMware-related processes in the Task Manager (Windows) or process list (Linux/macOS). Check for files in typical installation directories such as C:Program FilesVMware on Windows.

wmic product get name,version where "name like '%VMWare Workstation%'"

4. Solution / Remediation Steps

The primary solution is to assess the need for VMware Workstation and remove it if not required. If necessary, ensure it’s kept up-to-date with the latest security patches.

4.1 Preparation

• Services: No services need to be stopped for removal.
• Roll back: Reinstall VMware Workstation from original media if needed. A change window may be required depending on business impact.

4.2 Implementation

1. Step 1: Uninstall VMware Workstation through the ‘Programs and Features’ control panel in Windows, or using the appropriate package manager on Linux/macOS.

4.3 Config or Code Example

Before

VMware Workstation is listed in Programs and Features

After

VMware Workstation is not listed in Programs and Features.

4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability

Several security practices can help mitigate the risks associated with virtualization software. Least privilege reduces impact if exploited, while a regular patch cadence ensures vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.

• Practice 1: Least privilege – limit user accounts’ access rights to reduce potential damage from compromised virtual machines.
• Practice 2: Patch cadence – regularly update VMware Workstation and the host operating system with security patches.

4.5 Automation (Optional)

# PowerShell example to uninstall VMware Workstation
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Where-Object {$_.Name -like "*VMware Workstation*"} | Uninstall-Package

5. Verification / Validation

Confirm the fix by checking that VMware Workstation is no longer installed and re-running detection methods. A smoke test should verify core system functionality remains intact.

• Post-fix check: Run wmic product get name where "name like '%VMWare Workstation%'"; the output should be empty.
• Re-test: Re-run the quick check from Section 3 to confirm VMware Workstation is not present in the list of installed programs.
• Smoke test: Verify basic system functions such as web browsing and file access still work correctly.

wmic product get name where "name like '%VMWare Workstation%'"

6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring

Update security baselines to reflect the removal of unnecessary software such as VMware Workstation. Implement checks in CI/CD pipelines to prevent its re-installation. A sensible patch or config review cycle should be followed for any remaining virtualization components.

• Baselines: Update your standard desktop build image to exclude VMware Workstation if it’s not a required application.
• Pipelines: Add checks in deployment pipelines to prevent the installation of unauthorized software packages, including VMware Workstation.
• Asset and patch process: Review installed software regularly as part of an asset management program.

7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back

Uninstalling VMware Workstation may disrupt workflows that rely on it. Ensure users have alternative solutions if needed. Roll back involves reinstalling the application from original media.

• Risk or side effect 1: Users who require VMware Workstation for legitimate purposes will be affected; provide alternatives where possible.
• Roll back: Reinstall VMware Workstation using the original installation files or a trusted source.

8. References and Resources

• Vendor advisory or bulletin: https://www.vmware.com/products/workstation-pro.html