CVE-2008-5359 in SDKJDK
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Java Runtime Environment (JRE) for Sun JDK and JRE 6 Update 10 and earlier; JDK and JRE 5.0 Update 16 and earlier; SDK and JRE 1.4.2_18 and earlier; and SDK and JRE 1.3.1_23 and earlier might allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, related to a ConvolveOp operation in the Java AWT library.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-5359 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Java Runtime Environment that affects multiple versions of the JDK and JRE across different release lines. This issue specifically targets the ConvolveOp operation within the Java AWT (Abstract Window Toolkit) library, which is responsible for image processing and manipulation functions. The flaw exists in versions up to and including JDK/JRE 6 Update 10, JDK/JRE 5.0 Update 16, SDK/JRE 1.4.2_18, and SDK/JRE 1.3.1_23, making it a widespread vulnerability that impacts a significant portion of Java installations during that era. The buffer overflow occurs when the ConvolveOp class processes image convolution operations, which are commonly used in graphics applications and web-based Java applets.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the image processing routines of the Java AWT library. When a maliciously crafted image file is processed through the ConvolveOp operation, the application fails to properly validate the size and structure of the input data, allowing attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can be leveraged to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Java runtime process. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and can be classified under the broader category of memory safety issues that enable privilege escalation attacks. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely through web-based Java applets, making it accessible to attackers without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5359 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to systems running vulnerable Java versions, potentially leading to data theft, system takeover, or deployment of additional malicious software. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Java applets are commonly used for business applications, and it can be exploited through web browsers or other Java-enabled applications. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving code injection and privilege escalation, specifically targeting the execution of arbitrary code through memory corruption attacks. The widespread adoption of Java across different platforms and applications makes this vulnerability particularly impactful.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5359 primarily focus on immediate version updates and security hardening measures. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to patched versions of the Java Runtime Environment, specifically moving beyond the affected versions mentioned in the vulnerability description. System administrators should disable Java plugin execution in web browsers where possible, and implement strict security policies that limit the execution of unsigned applets. Network-level protections such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious traffic attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running vulnerable Java versions and ensure proper patch management processes are in place. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of input validation and bounds checking in software development practices, particularly for libraries handling user-supplied data such as image files, which aligns with security best practices outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-155 and ISO 27001 standards.