CVE-2016-3610 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Oracle Java SE 8u92 and Java SE Embedded 8u91 allows remote attackers to affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability via vectors related to Libraries, a different vulnerability than CVE-2016-3598.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-3610 represents a significant security weakness within Oracle Java SE 8u92 and Java SE Embedded 8u91 implementations that exposes systems to remote exploitation. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of Java runtime environment flaws that can compromise the fundamental security properties of affected systems. The issue specifically relates to the libraries component of the Java platform, indicating that the weakness manifests within the core library functions that Java applications depend upon for their operation. Unlike CVE-2016-3598 which addresses a different aspect of Java security, this vulnerability operates through distinct attack vectors that target the library subsystem directly. The classification of this vulnerability as unspecified suggests that Oracle did not provide detailed technical information about the exact nature of the flaw during the initial disclosure, though it was clearly identified as a serious concern that could impact the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems running affected Java versions.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from weaknesses within the Java library implementations that allow remote attackers to exploit the system without requiring local access or authentication. This type of vulnerability typically involves memory corruption issues, improper input validation, or flawed privilege handling within the library code that forms part of the Java runtime environment. The impact of such flaws can be severe as library components are foundational to how Java applications operate, meaning that exploitation could lead to complete system compromise. Attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, access sensitive data, modify system files, or disrupt service availability. The fact that this vulnerability affects both Java SE and Java SE Embedded versions indicates that the flaw exists at the core library level rather than being specific to particular Java profiles or implementations.
From an operational perspective, systems running Oracle Java SE 8u92 and Java SE Embedded 8u91 face significant risks when exposed to network-based attacks. Organizations that deploy Java applications in enterprise environments, web servers, or client systems are particularly vulnerable since these platforms often have direct internet exposure. The remote exploit capability means that attackers can target these systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access to affected systems, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, or service disruption. The impact on confidentiality means that sensitive information stored on or processed by affected systems could be accessed by unauthorized parties. Integrity compromises could allow attackers to modify system files, application data, or configuration settings, while availability impacts could result in denial of service conditions that prevent legitimate users from accessing critical services.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation efforts to address CVE-2016-3610 by upgrading to patched versions of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-119 which addresses improper restriction of operations within a limited error handling scope, and potentially CWE-787 which deals with out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities in library functions. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under the attack technique of code injection or privilege escalation as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework. System administrators should implement network segmentation to limit exposure, disable unnecessary Java functionality, and monitor for suspicious network activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected Java versions and establish a comprehensive patch management process to ensure timely deployment of security updates. The remediation process should include not only updating the Java runtime but also verifying that applications are not vulnerable to related issues that might persist despite Java updates.