CVE-2002-0979 in Virtual Machine
Summary
by MITRE
The Java logging feature for the Java Virtual Machine in Internet Explorer writes output from functions such as System.out.println to a known pathname, which can be used to execute arbitrary code.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-0979 represents a critical security flaw in the Java Runtime Environment integration within Internet Explorer browsers. This issue specifically targets the Java logging mechanism that operates within the browser context, creating a pathway for malicious code execution through improper handling of Java virtual machine output redirection. The vulnerability stems from the design decision to write Java system output directly to a predictable file path, which fundamentally compromises the security boundaries between browser sandboxing and system-level operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when Internet Explorer executes Java applets or applications that utilize standard Java output methods such as System.out.println. The Java Virtual Machine in this browser context is configured to direct its standard output streams to a fixed pathname that can be manipulated or predicted by attackers. This design flaw allows malicious actors to craft Java applets that write malicious payloads to the targeted file location, effectively bypassing normal security restrictions that would typically prevent arbitrary code execution from web-based content. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate Java logging functionality to achieve unauthorized system access.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running Internet Explorer, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it can be delivered through standard web browsing activities, making it difficult to detect and prevent through conventional security measures. The vulnerability affects users who have both Internet Explorer and the affected Java Runtime Environment installed, creating a widespread attack surface across corporate and personal computing environments. Security professionals noted that this vulnerability could be exploited in conjunction with other browser-based attacks to create more sophisticated exploitation chains.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve updating to patched versions of both Internet Explorer and the Java Runtime Environment, as well as implementing browser security configurations that restrict Java applet execution. Organizations should consider disabling Java plugin execution in web browsers or implementing strict security policies that limit the scope of Java applet permissions. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which addresses improper limitation of a pathname, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through Java. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and output handling in sandboxed environments, emphasizing that even legitimate system features can become security risks when not properly constrained. Security practitioners should also implement network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious Java-related traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.