Patch Now: Secure VMware Tools from Insecure File Handling Vulnerability CVE-2025-22247

Executive Summary

The following report delves into a significant cybersecurity vulnerability identified in VMware Tools. This vulnerability, designated as CVE-2025-22247, involves insecure file handling that could potentially allow a malicious actor to manipulate local files within a guest virtual machine. With a CVSSv3 base score of 6.1, it is classified as moderately severe. Affected platforms include Windows and Linux, while macOS remains unaffected. The vulnerability has not been reported to be exploited in the wild, however, it is crucial to apply the provided patches to mitigate potential risk.

Technical Information

VMware Tools, an essential suite embedded in virtualized environments, has been found to harbor an insecure file handling vulnerability, CVE-2025-22247. This issue was privately reported to VMware, prompting the release of a security advisory (VMSA-2025-0007) and subsequent patches. The vulnerability enables a non-administrative user operating within a guest VM to perform unauthorized file manipulations, potentially leading to insecure file operations.

The technical essence of this vulnerability lies in its exploitation of inadequate file permission and handling protocols within VMware Tools. When leveraged by a threat actor with non-administrative access, this flaw can be manipulated to execute unauthorized local file operations. The vulnerability's CVSSv3 score of 6.1 underscores its moderate severity, urging timely remediation.

The affected versions prior to the patched version, 12.5.2, include VMware Tools versions 12.x.x and 11.x.x on Windows and Linux platforms. VMware's advisory emphasizes the need for users to transition to the latest patched version to secure their virtual environments against potential exploitation.

Exploitation in the Wild

Currently, there are no documented instances of CVE-2025-22247 being actively exploited in the wild. However, the potential for unauthorized file manipulation within virtual machines underscores the importance of preemptive patching and vigilant system administration.

APT Groups using this vulnerability

As of this report, no specific Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups have been identified as exploiting this specific vulnerability. However, the potential impact of such vulnerabilities makes them attractive targets for APT groups, particularly those targeting critical infrastructure sectors across various geographies.

Affected Product Versions

The vulnerability affects VMware Tools versions 12.x.x and 11.x.x, deployed on Windows and Linux platforms. It is important to note that macOS versions remain unaffected by this security flaw. Users are advised to upgrade to VMware Tools version 12.5.2, which includes necessary security patches to address the vulnerability.

Workaround and Mitigation

While there are no known workarounds for CVE-2025-22247, VMware has provided patches as the primary remediation strategy. Users are strongly encouraged to apply the patches included in VMware Tools version 12.5.2. Ensuring systems are updated with the latest security releases is vital to safeguarding against potential exploitation.

References

• VMware Security Advisory: Broadcom Support Portal Notification
• VMware Tools Documentation: VMware Tools 12.5.2 Documentation
• CVE Details: MITRE CVE Dictionary
• CVSS Calculator: FIRST CVSSv3 Calculator

Rescana is here for you

At Rescana, we prioritize your cybersecurity needs with our Third Party Risk Management (TPRM) platform. Our goal is to help you identify, assess, and mitigate risks that could potentially impact your organization. Should you have any questions or require further assistance regarding this report or any other cybersecurity concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at ops@rescana.com. We are committed to supporting you in safeguarding your digital assets.

This comprehensive report has been prepared to assist Rescana customers in understanding the implications of CVE-2025-22247 and the necessary steps to mitigate associated risks. Please ensure your systems are updated with the latest security patches.