CVE-2002-1293 in Java Virtual Machine
Summary
by MITRE
The Microsoft Java implementation, as used in Internet Explorer, provides a public load0() method for the CabCracker class (com.ms.vm.loader.CabCracker), which allows remote attackers to bypass the security checks that are performed by the load() method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-1293 resides within the Microsoft Java implementation that was integrated into Internet Explorer, representing a critical security flaw in the sandboxing mechanisms designed to protect users from malicious Java applets. This vulnerability specifically targets the CabCracker class within the com.ms.vm.loader package, where the implementation exposes a public load0() method that bypasses the normal security validation procedures. The flaw fundamentally undermines the security model by allowing unauthorized code execution that would otherwise be restricted by the standard load() method's security checks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper exposure of internal methods within the Java Virtual Machine implementation provided by Microsoft. The load0() method serves as an alternative code path that circumvents the security validation logic present in the load() method, effectively creating a backdoor for malicious code execution. This design flaw allows remote attackers to exploit the system by directly invoking load0() instead of going through the proper security validation process, thereby undermining the entire security architecture of the Java sandbox. The vulnerability operates at the class loading level, where the security boundaries are improperly enforced, making it particularly dangerous as it affects the fundamental security mechanisms of the Java runtime environment.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems with the privileges of the user running Internet Explorer. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially allow full system compromise, as the bypassed security checks typically include validation of code signatures, permission restrictions, and other critical sandbox protections. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive information, or perform other malicious activities without being detected by the normal security monitoring mechanisms. The vulnerability affects all versions of Internet Explorer that utilize the Microsoft Java implementation, making it a widespread concern for organizations relying on legacy web browsing environments.
The security implications of CVE-2002-1293 align with CWE-254, which addresses security weaknesses related to improper access control and flawed security boundaries. This vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient privilege separation where the security model fails to properly enforce access controls. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of code through Java-based attack vectors. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the Microsoft Java implementation within Internet Explorer, applying security patches from Microsoft, and monitoring network traffic for exploitation attempts. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. The incident underscores the importance of proper security architecture design and the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security measures to prevent such fundamental flaws from being exploited in real-world scenarios.