CVE-2009-2674 in JRE
Summary
by MITRE
Integer overflow in javaws.exe in Sun Java Web Start in Sun Java Runtime Environment (JRE) in JDK and JRE 6 before Update 15 allows context-dependent attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted JPEG image that is not properly handled during display to a splash screen, which triggers a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2674 represents a critical integer overflow flaw within the Java Web Start component of Sun Java Runtime Environment. This issue specifically affects javaws.exe executable in JDK and JRE 6 versions prior to Update 15, creating a dangerous condition where attackers can manipulate JPEG image handling during splash screen display to achieve arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability operates through a heap-based buffer overflow mechanism that occurs when the application fails to properly validate image dimensions during processing.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the JPEG parsing logic of Java Web Start. When a maliciously crafted JPEG image is processed for display on a splash screen, the application's handling of image dimensions causes an integer overflow condition. This overflow subsequently leads to improper memory allocation, resulting in a heap-based buffer overflow that can be leveraged by attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability is context-dependent, meaning successful exploitation requires specific conditions related to how the malicious JPEG is presented to the Java Web Start application.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant threat to enterprise environments where Java Web Start applications are commonly deployed. Attackers can craft malicious JPEG files that, when loaded through Java Web Start, trigger the overflow condition and provide remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability affects the core Java Runtime Environment, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through web-based attacks, potentially compromising systems that execute Java Web Start applications. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The exploitation of CVE-2009-2674 aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to code injection and privilege escalation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code within the context of the Java Web Start process, potentially leading to full system compromise. Organizations using Java Web Start applications should be particularly concerned about this vulnerability, as it can be exploited through web-based delivery mechanisms without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website. The vulnerability's classification as a heap-based buffer overflow places it within the ATT&CK technique of code injection, where adversaries manipulate memory allocation to execute arbitrary code.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate patching of affected Java installations to Update 15 or later versions of JDK and JRE 6. Organizations should also implement network-level controls to restrict access to untrusted Java content and consider disabling Java Web Start functionality where possible. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual Java process behavior and unauthorized code execution attempts. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting user privileges when executing Java applications can significantly reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper integer overflow protection in memory management functions and highlights the critical need for regular security updates in enterprise Java deployments.