CVE-2001-0068 in Mac OS Runtime for Java
Summary
by MITRE
Mac OS Runtime for Java (MRJ) 2.2.3 allows remote attackers to use malicious applets to read files outside of the CODEBASE context via the ARCHIVE applet parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0068 represents a critical security flaw in the Mac OS Runtime for Java (MRJ) version 2.2.3 that fundamentally undermines the sandboxing mechanisms designed to protect users from malicious code execution. This issue specifically targets the handling of applet parameters, particularly the ARCHIVE parameter, which is used to specify the location of applet archives within the CODEBASE context. The flaw allows remote attackers to bypass security restrictions by crafting malicious applets that exploit improper input validation in the MRJ runtime environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate parameter validation within the MRJ runtime's applet loading mechanism. When an applet is loaded with the ARCHIVE parameter, the runtime should enforce strict boundaries to prevent file access outside the designated codebase. However, the MRJ 2.2.3 implementation fails to properly sanitize or validate the ARCHIVE parameter values, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary file paths that can be resolved relative to the system's file structure. This creates a path traversal condition where malicious applets can access files beyond their intended scope, potentially reading sensitive system files, user documents, or application data that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in the Java security model's containment principles. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute unauthorized file system operations, potentially leading to complete system compromise if sensitive files containing credentials, configuration data, or system information are accessible. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of trusted applet execution, making it difficult for users to detect malicious activity. This issue directly violates the principle of least privilege that should govern all code execution within sandboxed environments.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw demonstrates how improper input validation can create security holes that bypass fundamental access control mechanisms. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and credential access, as attackers can use the compromised applet to gain access to files that would normally be protected. The vulnerability also represents a failure in the secure coding practices that should prevent such path manipulation attacks in application frameworks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the MRJ runtime to version 2.2.4 or later, which includes proper parameter validation and enhanced sandboxing controls. Organizations should also implement network-level controls such as firewall rules that restrict access to Java applet execution environments and deploy web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious ARCHIVE parameter values. Additionally, system administrators should disable Java applet execution in web browsers where possible, as this vulnerability primarily affects web-based applet execution contexts. The remediation process should include comprehensive security audits to identify any systems that may have been compromised through exploitation of this vulnerability, ensuring that all affected MRJ installations are properly updated and that appropriate access controls are maintained.