CVE-2004-1145 in Konqueror
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple vulnerabilities in Konqueror in KDE 3.3.1 and earlier (1) allow access to restricted Java classes via JavaScript and (2) do not properly restrict access to certain Java classes from the Java applet, which allows remote attackers to bypass sandbox restrictions and read or write arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1145 represents a critical security flaw in Konqueror web browser component within KDE 3.3.1 and earlier versions. This issue stems from insufficient sandboxing mechanisms that govern how JavaScript can interact with Java applets, creating pathways for malicious actors to circumvent security boundaries designed to protect users from potentially harmful code execution. The vulnerability specifically targets the Java security model implementation within the Konqueror browser, which was part of the broader KDE desktop environment ecosystem.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary vectors that together create a comprehensive attack surface. First, the flaw allows JavaScript code to access restricted Java classes that should normally be unavailable to web content, effectively breaking the isolation between web-based scripting and the underlying Java runtime environment. Second, the vulnerability fails to properly restrict access to certain Java classes from within Java applets, enabling attackers to craft malicious applets that can bypass the standard security sandbox restrictions. This dual weakness creates a scenario where attackers can leverage JavaScript to manipulate Java class access and subsequently use compromised Java applets to perform unauthorized file operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1145 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables complete file system compromise on affected systems. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read arbitrary files from the target system, potentially accessing sensitive information such as configuration files, user credentials, or system data. The ability to write arbitrary files opens additional attack vectors, allowing malicious actors to modify system components, install backdoors, or corrupt system integrity. This vulnerability effectively neutralizes the sandboxing protections that are fundamental to preventing web-based attacks from compromising local system resources, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where user access to potentially malicious web content is common.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-254 and CWE-255 categories that address security flaws in sandbox implementations and access control mechanisms. The attack pattern described follows typical privilege escalation and information disclosure techniques documented in the ATT&CK framework under the T1059 and T1074 sub-techniques related to command and control communications and data staging. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, as it can be triggered through standard web browsing activities, making it particularly dangerous in real-world scenarios. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation, browser hardening measures, and immediate patch deployment to address this vulnerability.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2004-1145 centers on upgrading to Konqueror versions that properly implement Java security restrictions and sandboxing controls. System administrators should prioritize patching affected KDE installations to ensure that proper access controls are enforced between JavaScript and Java components. Additional mitigations include disabling Java applet execution in web browsers, implementing strict content filtering policies, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns on systems that cannot be immediately patched. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and browser security extensions to provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities in other browser components or web-based applications.