CVE-2002-2022 in OpenVM
Summary
by MITRE
Format string vulnerability in Kaffe OpenVM 1.0.6 and earlier allows local users to execute arbitrary code, when a java.lang.NoClassDefFoundError is thrown, via format specifiers in the forName attribute.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2022 represents a critical format string flaw within Kaffe OpenVM version 1.0.6 and earlier implementations. This issue manifests specifically when the Java runtime environment encounters a java.lang.NoClassDefFoundError exception, creating a scenario where maliciously crafted format specifiers in the forName attribute can trigger arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability resides in the improper handling of format strings during error message generation, which allows attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the virtual machine through carefully constructed input parameters.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic format string attack pattern where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before using it in printf-style functions. In the context of Kaffe OpenVM, when a NoClassDefFoundError occurs, the system attempts to format and display error information containing the problematic class name. If this class name contains format specifiers such as %s, %d, or other printf-style directives, the virtual machine's error handling routine processes these specifiers as formatting instructions rather than literal text. This misinterpretation enables attackers to inject malicious code sequences that can overwrite memory locations, manipulate program execution flow, or execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the running Java process.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to systems running affected Kaffe OpenVM versions, as local users can leverage it to gain elevated privileges and execute unauthorized code. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no network connectivity and can be executed from within the same system where the vulnerable Java runtime is installed. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise the entire system integrity, especially when the Java application runs with elevated privileges or has access to sensitive system resources. This aligns with CWE-134, which categorizes format string vulnerabilities as a critical weakness in software systems.
The exploitation of CVE-2002-2022 demonstrates how seemingly innocuous error handling mechanisms can become security gateways when proper input validation and sanitization are absent. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter indicates that successful exploitation could lead to persistent access through command execution capabilities. Organizations using affected Kaffe versions should consider immediate remediation through patch updates or complete replacement with more secure JVM implementations. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper error message formatting practices and the need for comprehensive input validation in all system components that handle user-supplied data, particularly in security-critical applications where error handling routines may become attack surfaces.