CVE-2013-1927 in Linux
Summary
by MITRE
The IcedTea-Web plugin before 1.2.3 and 1.3.x before 1.3.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted file that validates as both a GIF and a Java JAR file, aka "GIFAR."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/02/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1927 represents a critical security flaw in the IcedTea-Web plugin ecosystem that affected versions prior to 1.2.3 and 1.3.x before 1.3.2. This vulnerability operates under the alias "GIFAR" and demonstrates a sophisticated attack vector that exploits the trust placed in file format validation mechanisms within web browsers. The issue arises from the plugin's inability to properly distinguish between different file types when processing content that appears to be one format but actually contains another, creating a dangerous overlap in file interpretation that adversaries can exploit.
The technical flaw stems from the plugin's handling of file validation processes where it accepts files that simultaneously conform to both GIF image format specifications and Java JAR archive structures. This dual-format capability creates a parsing ambiguity that allows attackers to craft malicious files that appear legitimate to the browser's validation system. When a user encounters such a crafted file, the plugin processes it as a GIF image while simultaneously executing embedded Java bytecode contained within the same file structure. This fundamental flaw in file type detection and processing creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution on affected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deliver malicious Java applets that operate with the privileges of the user running the browser, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, or further exploitation of network resources. The vulnerability's stealthy nature makes it particularly dangerous as users may not realize they are executing malicious code, since the file appears to be a legitimate image. The attack vector typically involves social engineering campaigns where users are tricked into downloading or viewing what appears to be a harmless image file, making this vulnerability particularly effective in phishing and drive-by download scenarios.
This vulnerability aligns with several common attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework, specifically relating to initial access through malicious file downloads and privilege escalation through code execution. The weakness corresponds to CWE-502, which addresses "Deserialization of Untrusted Data" and "Untrusted Data in a Web Form," as the plugin fails to properly sanitize and validate file content before processing. Additionally, the issue demonstrates characteristics of CWE-20, "Improper Input Validation," where the system accepts malformed or malicious input without adequate verification. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk exposure, particularly those with outdated IcedTea-Web installations or those that have not implemented proper patch management protocols. The remediation process requires immediate deployment of patched versions of the IcedTea-Web plugin, alongside comprehensive security awareness training to help users recognize potential social engineering attempts that could lead to exploitation of this vulnerability.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the critical importance of proper file format validation in web-based applications and the necessity of maintaining up-to-date security patches across all system components. The GIFAR vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of how seemingly minor implementation flaws in file processing can create significant security risks, particularly when dealing with complex file formats that may contain multiple layers of data structures. Organizations must implement robust security controls including regular vulnerability assessments, automated patch deployment systems, and continuous monitoring for suspicious file access patterns to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.