CVE-2007-2906 in Java Embedding Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Java Embedding Plugin 0.9.6.1 allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (browser crash) via a Thread subclass that calls super.run from its run method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2017
The Java Embedding Plugin version 0.9.6.1 contains a critical vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute denial of service attacks against affected systems. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of Thread subclasses within the Java runtime environment, creating a scenario where malicious code can trigger browser instability and complete system crashes. The flaw resides in how the plugin processes thread execution when a Thread subclass overrides the run method and subsequently calls super.run, which creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged from remote locations without requiring authentication or specialized privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper thread management within the Java Embedding Plugin's execution model. When a malicious Thread subclass implements the run method and invokes super.run, the plugin's internal thread handling mechanism fails to properly manage the execution flow, leading to stack corruption and memory management issues. This particular flaw falls under the category of improper handling of thread execution flows and can be categorized as a CWE-470 weakness related to unsafe use of reflection and thread manipulation. The vulnerability exploits the fundamental threading mechanisms of the Java Virtual Machine while operating within the context of browser plugin execution, making it particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple browser platforms that utilize the affected plugin version.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can lead to complete browser crashes and potentially system instability. Attackers can remotely trigger this condition by crafting malicious Java applets or web content that utilizes the vulnerable Thread subclass pattern, causing the browser to consume excessive resources or enter an unstable execution state. This type of attack can be particularly problematic in enterprise environments where browser stability is crucial for productivity, as it can affect multiple users simultaneously if the vulnerable plugin is deployed across an organization. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499 which covers network denial of service attacks, and specifically targets the browser plugin execution environment as outlined in T1059.007 for script-based execution within web browsers.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the Java Embedding Plugin to version 0.9.6.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to properly handle Thread subclass execution. Organizations should also implement network-level restrictions to prevent access to potentially malicious content that could trigger this vulnerability, particularly in environments where the plugin is not essential for business operations. Browser administrators should consider disabling the Java Embedding Plugin entirely if it is not required for critical applications, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Additionally, security monitoring should be implemented to detect unusual thread execution patterns or resource consumption spikes that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper thread management in plugin architectures and the potential for seemingly benign threading operations to create critical security weaknesses in complex software environments.