CVE-2010-1423 in JDK
Summary
by MITRE
Argument injection vulnerability in the URI handler in (a) Java NPAPI plugin and (b) Java Deployment Toolkit in Java 6 Update 10, 19, and other versions, when running on Windows and possibly on Linux, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the (1) -J or (2) -XXaltjvm argument to javaws.exe, which is processed by the launch method. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2025
The CVE-2010-1423 vulnerability represents a critical argument injection flaw within Java's web browser integration components, specifically affecting the Java NPAPI plugin and Java Deployment Toolkit implementations. This vulnerability exists in Java 6 Update 10, 19, and other affected versions when operating on Windows systems, with potential exposure on Linux platforms as well. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation within the URI handling mechanism that processes command-line arguments passed to the javaws.exe executable, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary code execution commands.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the Java Web Start launch process, where attackers can inject malicious arguments using the -J or -XXaltjvm command-line parameters. These arguments are processed by the launch method within the Java runtime environment, bypassing normal security controls and validation mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the Java Network Launch Protocol (JNLP) handling within the browser plugin, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems with the privileges of the user running the Java application. This represents a classic command injection attack vector that leverages the trust relationship between the browser plugin and the Java runtime environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-1423 is severe and far-reaching, as it enables remote code execution without requiring user interaction beyond visiting a malicious website or clicking on a crafted link. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install malware, steal sensitive information, or establish persistent backdoors on compromised systems. The vulnerability affects both the Java NPAPI plugin and the Java Deployment Toolkit, creating multiple attack vectors and increasing the potential attack surface. The fact that this vulnerability impacts multiple Java versions and operating systems makes it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments where Java applications are widely deployed. This flaw directly maps to CWE-77 and CWE-88 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, specifically addressing command injection vulnerabilities and argument injection scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-1423 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Java versions, as Oracle released security updates addressing this vulnerability. Organizations should disable Java plugin functionality in web browsers when not actively required, implement strict network-level controls to prevent access to untrusted Java content, and monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell) and T1203 (Exploitation for Client Execution), highlighting the need for both endpoint protection and network monitoring solutions. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of javaws.exe with arbitrary arguments, and conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in Java-based applications and components.