CVE-2010-3555 in Java
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in the Deployment component in Oracle Java SE and Java for Business 6 Update 21 allows remote attackers to affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability via unknown vectors. NOTE: the previous information was obtained from the January 2011 CPU. Oracle has not commented on claims from a reliable third party coordinator that the ActiveX Plugin does not properly initialize an object field that is used as a window handle, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3555 represents a critical security flaw within Oracle Java SE and Java for Business version 6 Update 21, specifically within the Deployment component. This issue manifests as an unspecified vulnerability that potentially affects all three fundamental principles of information security: confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability's classification as unspecified indicates that the exact technical mechanism remains partially obscured, though subsequent analysis has revealed significant concerns regarding the ActiveX Plugin's object initialization process. The initial disclosure occurred through Oracle's January 2011 Critical Patch Update, which provided limited information about the nature of the vulnerability.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper initialization of object fields within the ActiveX Plugin component, particularly concerning window handle management. When the ActiveX Plugin fails to properly initialize an object field that serves as a window handle, it creates a condition where attackers can manipulate the memory layout or object references to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. This flaw operates at the core of Java's security model, where the Deployment component is responsible for managing Java applets and ActiveX controls within web browsers. The improper initialization creates a potential code execution pathway that bypasses standard security boundaries, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially execute malicious payloads with the privileges of the user running the Java application.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3555 extends beyond simple code execution, creating a comprehensive threat vector that can compromise entire systems. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can potentially access sensitive data, modify system files, install malicious software, and establish persistent access points within networks. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can trigger the flaw through web-based attacks without requiring physical access to target systems. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Java applets are commonly used for business applications, educational software, or internal tools. The potential for confidentiality breaches is significant as attackers can access stored data, while integrity violations can lead to system corruption and unauthorized modifications. Availability concerns arise from the possibility of system crashes or denial of service conditions that can disrupt business operations.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, particularly under the techniques related to privilege escalation and code injection. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses "Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer," and CWE-787, which covers "Out-of-bounds Write." These classifications indicate that the vulnerability involves improper memory management and object initialization that can lead to memory corruption. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including disabling Java plugin functionality in web browsers, updating to patched versions of Java SE, and implementing network segmentation to limit the attack surface. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and object initialization practices in security-critical components. System administrators should monitor for exploitation attempts and consider implementing additional security controls such as application whitelisting and network-based intrusion detection systems to identify and prevent exploitation attempts.