CVE-2010-0539 in Java 1.5
Summary
by MITRE
Integer signedness error in the window drawing implementation in Apple Java for Mac OS X 10.5 before Update 7 and Java for Mac OS X 10.6 before Update 2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (application crash) via a crafted applet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0539 represents a critical integer signedness error within the window drawing implementation of Apple's Java runtime environment for macOS. This flaw exists in Java versions shipped with Mac OS X 10.5 prior to Update 7 and Mac OS X 10.6 prior to Update 2, creating a significant security risk that could be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized code execution privileges or cause application instability through denial of service conditions. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of integer values during graphical window rendering operations, specifically when processing window dimensions and coordinates.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a classic signedness error where the Java runtime fails to properly validate or convert integer values when processing window drawing parameters. When a malicious applet attempts to render windows with specially crafted coordinates or dimensions, the signed integer values can overflow or underflow, leading to unpredictable behavior in the graphics subsystem. This particular flaw falls under CWE-190, which specifically addresses integer overflow and underflow conditions, and more broadly relates to CWE-129, which deals with insufficient validation of array indices. The error manifests when the system processes window dimensions that exceed the expected range for signed integers, causing the application to behave erratically and potentially execute arbitrary code through memory corruption.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to macOS systems running affected Java versions, as it allows remote attackers to compromise system integrity through web-based applets. The attack vector requires no local privileges and can be executed through web browsers or other Java-enabled applications, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently access untrusted web content. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code with the privileges of the Java runtime process. The denial of service aspect of this vulnerability can also be weaponized to create persistent availability issues, effectively disabling Java applications and potentially affecting system stability. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, as the vulnerability enables both code execution and application compromise through legitimate Java applet interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-0539 primarily focus on immediate system updates and configuration hardening. Organizations should prioritize applying the official security patches released by Apple for Mac OS X 10.5 Update 7 and Mac OS X 10.6 Update 2, which address the underlying signedness error in the window drawing implementation. Additionally, implementing Java security policies that restrict applet execution, disabling Java plugin in web browsers, and deploying network monitoring solutions to detect suspicious applet behavior can provide layered protection. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent execution of untrusted Java applets and regularly audit Java runtime configurations to ensure proper security settings are maintained. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and integer handling in graphics subsystems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive code review processes that specifically address integer overflow and signedness issues in system-level components.