CVE-2005-2529 in Java
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Java 1.4.2 before 1.4.2 Release 2 on Apple Mac OS X allows local users to gain privileges via unspecified attack vectors relating to "the utility used to update Java shared archives."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2025
This vulnerability resides within the Java 1.4.2 runtime environment on Apple Mac OS X systems, specifically affecting versions prior to Release 2. The issue stems from an insecure implementation of the utility responsible for updating Java shared archives, creating a potential privilege escalation vector for local attackers. The unspecified nature of the attack vectors suggests multiple possible exploitation pathways within the archive update mechanism that could be leveraged to elevate user privileges.
The technical flaw manifests in how the Java shared archive update utility handles file operations and permissions during the update process. When the utility executes, it likely performs operations that do not adequately validate input or properly manage file system permissions, potentially allowing a local attacker to manipulate the update process. This could involve replacing or modifying archive files with malicious content, or exploiting race conditions during the update sequence. The vulnerability represents a classic privilege escalation weakness where a lower-privileged user can execute code with elevated privileges through manipulation of system utilities.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant security risks to Mac OS X systems running affected Java versions. Local users who might otherwise have limited system access could potentially gain administrative privileges, leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only local system access, meaning an attacker with basic user credentials could exploit this weakness without external network connectivity. This makes the vulnerability especially dangerous in multi-user environments where privilege separation is critical for system security.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the Java runtime environment to Release 2 or later versions that contain the necessary security fixes. System administrators should also implement strict access controls and monitor for unauthorized modifications to Java-related system files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-264, which covers permissions, privileges, and access control issues, and may map to ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation. Organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized Java utilities and ensure proper file system permissions are enforced on Java shared archive directories. Regular security audits should verify that the Java runtime environment is properly maintained and that no outdated versions remain installed on systems.