CVE-2022-22948 VMware vCenter Server Incorrect Default File Permissions Vulnerability
VMware vCenter Server contains an incorrect default file permissions vulnerability that allows a remote, privileged attacker to gain access to sensitive information.
From the CISA KEV catalogue version 2026.11.06, with Cybergen analysis. Updated 6 Nov 2026.
Should You Worry?
- CISA confirmed exploitation in the wild and added it to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue on 17 Jul 2024.
- Rated Medium severity (CVSS 6.5, scored by CISA).
- This product type is often exposed to the internet, which is where attackers scan for it first.
- It has been in the catalogue for 842 days. Systems still unpatched now have almost certainly been scanned for it.
What It Is
The vCenter Server contains an information disclosure vulnerability due to improper permission of files. A malicious actor with non-administrative access to the vCenter Server may exploit this issue to gain access to sensitive information.
Affected Versions
| Product | Versions |
|---|---|
| VMware vCenter Server and VMware Cloud Foundation | VMware vCenter Server (7.0 prior to 7.0 U3d, 6.7 prior to 6.7 U3p and 6.5 prior to 6.5 U3r) and VMware Cloud Foundation (4.x and 3.x prior to 3.11) |
From the public CVE record, as supplied by the vendor. Always confirm against the vendor advisory.
What To Do Now
- 1
Find it
Search your asset inventory and external attack surface for VMware vCenter Server. Include cloud images, appliances and anything a supplier runs for you.
Attack Surface Management - 2
Fix it
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Vulnerability Management - 3
Hunt for compromise
If an affected system was reachable before you patched, assume it may have been hit. Check logs, new accounts, web shells and outbound connections from the date of exposure.
Incident Response - 4
Prove it is fixed
Rescan or test the system after patching. Upgrades that fail silently and forgotten secondary instances are common.
Penetration Testing
The Compliance Clock
General guidance, not legal advice. Your obligations depend on your sector, scope and jurisdiction.
Not Sure If You Are Exposed?
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