ZDI-CAN-27176: ZDI-26-188: (Pwn2Own) VMware ESXi VMCI Integer Underflow Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Published Mar 16, 2026

Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of VMware ESXi. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The ZDI has assigned a CVSS rating of 8.2. The following CVEs are assigned: CVE-2025-41237.

Affected Software

1 affected component

VMware ESXi

Event History

Mar 16, 2026

Advisory Published

via ZDI·05:00 AM

Data Sourced

via ZDI·05:00 AM

Description

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the severity of ZDI-CAN-27176?

The severity of ZDI-CAN-27176 is considered critical due to its potential for local privilege escalation.

How do I fix ZDI-CAN-27176?

To fix ZDI-CAN-27176, you should apply the latest security patches provided by VMware for ESXi.

Who is affected by ZDI-CAN-27176?

ZDI-CAN-27176 affects users of VMware ESXi installations where high-privileged code execution is possible.

What causes ZDI-CAN-27176?

ZDI-CAN-27176 is caused by an integer underflow vulnerability in the VMware ESXi VMCI component.

Can ZDI-CAN-27176 be exploited remotely?

No, ZDI-CAN-27176 requires local access to execute high-privileged code before exploitation.