Skip to main content
CISA KEV(1635d overdue)EPSS 83.0%top 0.32%Ransomware

CVE-2020-3992: VMware ESXi OpenSLP Use-After-Free Vulnerability

0
High
Vulnerability
Published: 11/03/2021 (11/03/2021, 00:00:00 UTC)
Last modified: 10/24/2026
Source: CISA KEV
Vendor/Project: VMware
Product: ESXi

Description

CVE-2020-3992 is a use-after-free vulnerability in VMware ESXi's OpenSLP service. It allows an attacker with access to the management network and port 427 to execute code remotely. This vulnerability has been exploited in the wild and is known to be used in ransomware campaigns.

AI-Powered Analysis

Machine-generated threat intelligence

AILast updated: 10/24/2026, 08:43:00 UTC

Technical Analysis

VMware ESXi contains a use-after-free vulnerability in the OpenSLP service, which listens on port 427. An attacker with network access to this port can exploit the flaw to achieve remote code execution. The vulnerability is identified as CWE-416 (Use After Free). It has been observed in active exploitation scenarios, including ransomware attacks.

Potential Impact

Successful exploitation allows remote code execution on VMware ESXi hosts via the OpenSLP service, potentially leading to full compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability is exploitable by attackers with access to the management network and port 427, enabling them to execute arbitrary code remotely.

Mitigation Recommendations

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until an official fix is available, restrict access to port 427 on the management network to trusted entities only to reduce exposure.

Pro Console: star threats, build custom feeds, automate alerts via Slack, email & webhooks.Upgrade to Pro

Threat ID: 6adc6f613fe894698b2dda6d

Added to database: 10/24/2026, 08:42:09 UTC

Last enriched: 10/24/2026, 08:43:00 UTC

Last updated: 10/24/2026, 09:30:24 UTC

Views: 2

Community Reviews

0 reviews

Crowdsource mitigation strategies, share intel context, and vote on the most helpful responses. Sign in to add your voice and help keep defenders ahead.

Sort by
Loading community insights…

Want to contribute mitigation steps or threat intel context? Sign in or create an account to join the community discussion.

Actions

PRO

Updates to AI analysis require Pro Console access. Upgrade inside Console → Billing.

Please log in to the Console to use AI analysis features.

Need more coverage?

Upgrade to Pro Console for AI refresh and higher limits.

For incident response and remediation, OffSeq services can help resolve threats faster.

Latest Threats

Breach by OffSeqOFFSEQFRIENDS — 25% OFF

Check if your credentials are on the dark web

Instant breach scanning across billions of leaked records. Free tier available.

Scan now
OffSeq TrainingCredly Certified

Lead Pen Test Professional

Technical5-day eLearningPECB Accredited
View courses