CVE-2005-0418 in J2SE
Summary
by MITRE
Argument injection vulnerability in Java Web Start for J2SE 1.4.2 up to 1.4.2_06, on Mac OS X, allows untrusted applications to gain privileges via the value parameter of a property tag in a JNLP file. NOTE: it is highly likely that this item will be MERGED with CVE-2005-0836.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0418 represents a critical argument injection flaw within Java Web Start functionality on Mac OS X systems running J2SE 1.4.2 versions up to 1.4.2_06. This security weakness specifically targets the processing of property tags within Java Network Launch Protocol files, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's trust model. The vulnerability operates by allowing untrusted applications to manipulate the value parameter of property tags, effectively enabling privilege escalation through carefully crafted JNLP file structures. The flaw exists in the manner in which Java Web Start parses and executes command-line arguments derived from these property values, creating an environment where user-supplied input can be interpreted as executable commands rather than benign configuration data.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-77, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in command execution. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the Java Web Start component that processes JNLP files, particularly on Mac OS X platforms where the system's privilege handling mechanisms may be more permissive than other operating systems. When a malicious JNLP file is executed, the vulnerable Java Web Start process accepts user-provided values from property tags and incorporates them directly into system command invocations without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. This creates a classic command injection scenario where attacker-controlled input can be executed with the privileges of the Java Web Start process, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution and system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of Java Web Start applications on affected systems. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary commands with elevated privileges, potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources, modifying critical files, or establishing persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may be prompted to execute JNLP files from untrusted sources, such as web applications or email attachments. The fact that this affects Mac OS X systems specifically means that organizations running macOS infrastructure must be particularly vigilant, as the vulnerability can be exploited through web-based attacks or social engineering campaigns targeting end users. Additionally, the vulnerability's potential for merging with CVE-2005-0836 suggests a broader pattern of similar weaknesses in Java Web Start implementations across different platforms and versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0418 should focus on immediate patching of affected Java versions, as the vulnerability is resolved through updates to the J2SE 1.4.2 runtime environment. Organizations should implement strict controls over JNLP file execution, including disabling automatic execution of unsigned applications and implementing content filtering mechanisms. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring Java Web Start to run with minimal required permissions and by implementing network-level controls to restrict access to potentially malicious JNLP resources. Security administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that prevent execution of untrusted Java Web Start applications, particularly those that may be delivered through web browsers or email systems. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and command execution, specifically mapping to T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) tactics. Organizations should also monitor for suspicious JNLP file execution patterns and implement security awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that could exploit this vulnerability.