CVE-2009-1672 in JRE
Summary
by MITRE
The Deployment Toolkit ActiveX control in deploytk.dll 6.0.130.3 in Sun Java SE Runtime Environment (aka JRE) 6 Update 13 allows remote attackers to (1) execute arbitrary code via a .jnlp URL in the argument to the launch method, and might allow remote attackers to launch JRE installation processes via the (2) installLatestJRE or (3) installJRE method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1672 represents a critical security flaw in the Sun Java SE Runtime Environment's Deployment Toolkit ActiveX control. This vulnerability affects version 6.0.130.3 of deploytk.dll within JRE 6 Update 13, exposing systems to significant remote execution risks through improper input validation and method handling. The ActiveX control serves as an interface for Java application deployment and management, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to leverage browser-based attacks. The flaw stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied parameters passed to the launch method, which can be manipulated to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability operates through the Java plugin's interaction with web browsers, specifically targeting Internet Explorer environments where ActiveX controls are enabled and active.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves three distinct attack vectors that exploit different methods within the Deployment Toolkit. The primary vector (1) utilizes the launch method with a maliciously crafted .jnlp URL parameter, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on target systems. The secondary vector (2) targets the installLatestJRE method, while the tertiary vector (3) exploits the installJRE method to potentially initiate JRE installation processes remotely. These methods demonstrate a pattern of insufficient parameter validation and improper privilege handling within the ActiveX control. The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-74, Deserialization of Untrusted Data, and CWE-94, Improper Control of Generation of Code, as the control fails to properly validate and sanitize inputs before executing code or initiating installation processes. The attack surface extends beyond simple code execution to include potential system compromise through unauthorized software installation.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-1672 is severe and far-reaching, particularly in enterprise environments where Java applets and web applications are commonly deployed. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain full system control, execute malicious payloads, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction, often occurring through drive-by downloads or malicious web pages that automatically trigger the vulnerable methods. Organizations using Java-based web applications face significant risk as attackers can bypass traditional security measures by targeting the ActiveX control directly. The vulnerability affects systems running JRE 6 Update 13 and earlier versions, creating a widespread exposure across numerous enterprise environments. This flaw enables attackers to perform actions such as downloading and executing malware, modifying system configurations, and potentially escalating privileges to system-level access. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents a publicly exposed attack surface that can be exploited without requiring special privileges or advanced knowledge.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-1672 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper patch management and security configuration. Organizations should prioritize updating to JRE 6 Update 14 or later versions, which contain the necessary security fixes for this vulnerability. System administrators should disable ActiveX controls in browser environments where they are not required, particularly in enterprise settings where Java applets are not essential for business operations. The implementation of strict browser security policies, including disabling Java plugin execution in web browsers, provides additional defense layers. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to Java-related services and ports. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious .jnlp file access patterns and unusual installation process initiation. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized Java applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and the risks associated with outdated software components. Compliance with security standards such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-40 and ISO/IEC 27001 requires regular vulnerability assessment and remediation procedures to address known security flaws.