CVE-2011-2514 in IcedTea6
Summary
by MITRE
The Java Network Launching Protocol (JNLP) implementation in IcedTea6 1.9.x before 1.9.9 and before 1.8.9, and IcedTea-Web 1.1.x before 1.1.1 and before 1.0.4, allows remote attackers to trick victims into granting access to local files by modifying the content of the Java Web Start Security Warning dialog box to represent a different filename than the file for which access will be granted.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2011-2514 represents a critical security flaw in the Java Network Launching Protocol implementation within IcedTea6 and IcedTea-Web software versions. This issue specifically affects the security warning dialog mechanism that is designed to protect users from potentially malicious Java Web Start applications. The flaw stems from the improper handling of filename representation in the security warning dialog, creating a deceptive user interface element that can mislead victims into granting unauthorized access to local system resources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability lies in the manipulation of the security warning dialog content to display misleading information about file names. When users encounter a Java Web Start application, the system displays a security dialog that warns about potential risks and specifies which files will be accessed. In affected versions, attackers can modify the dialog content to show one filename while actually granting access to a different file, exploiting the trust users place in these security warnings. This creates a sophisticated social engineering attack vector where the deception occurs at the user interface level rather than through direct code manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it undermines the fundamental security model of Java Web Start applications. Users who would normally refuse access to potentially dangerous files may inadvertently grant access due to the misleading dialog presentation. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where users regularly interact with Java Web Start applications, making it a persistent threat in enterprise settings where automated deployment and application launching are common practices. The attack can result in unauthorized access to local files, potential data exfiltration, and privilege escalation depending on the user's system permissions.
This vulnerability maps to CWE-693 Protection Mechanism Failure, specifically relating to inadequate protection mechanisms in user interface elements that are meant to warn users about security risks. The issue also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for application execution through Java, where attackers can leverage modified security dialogs to bypass user security controls. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of IcedTea6 and IcedTea-Web, disabling Java Web Start functionality where possible, and implementing additional security measures such as application whitelisting and network-based controls to prevent exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper user interface security design and the need for robust verification mechanisms in security warning systems to prevent such deceptive practices.