CVE-2017-10107 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: RMI). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u151, 7u141 and 8u131; Java SE Embedded: 8u131. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE, Java SE Embedded. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker and while the vulnerability is in Java SE, Java SE Embedded, attacks may significantly impact additional products. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in takeover of Java SE, Java SE Embedded. Note: This vulnerability applies to Java deployments, typically in clients running sandboxed Java Web Start applications or sandboxed Java applets, that load and run untrusted code (e.g., code that comes from the internet) and rely on the Java sandbox for security. This vulnerability does not apply to Java deployments, typically in servers, that load and run only trusted code (e.g., code installed by an administrator). CVSS 3.0 Base Score 9.6 (Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10107 represents a critical security flaw within Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded platforms, specifically affecting the Remote Method Invocation (RMI) subsystem. This vulnerability resides in the core Java runtime environment and impacts multiple version lines including Java SE 6u151, 7u141, and 8u131, alongside Java SE Embedded 8u131. The flaw demonstrates characteristics that align with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues in software systems, making it particularly dangerous for environments where untrusted code execution is permitted. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers can leverage network-based attacks without requiring authentication, presenting a significant risk to Java deployments that execute sandboxed applications.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the RMI component that handles remote object references and method invocations. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious network requests that bypass the standard Java security sandbox protections. The requirement for human interaction suggests that exploitation typically occurs through social engineering or when users inadvertently interact with malicious Java applets or Web Start applications. This attack vector creates a scenario where the vulnerability can be triggered through web-based delivery methods, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users regularly interact with internet-based applications. The CVSS 3.0 score of 9.6 reflects the high severity impact across confidentiality, integrity, and availability domains, indicating that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-10107 extends beyond the immediate Java platform, potentially affecting broader enterprise security postures due to its ability to compromise Java SE and Embedded systems. The vulnerability's applicability to sandboxed Java Web Start applications and applets means that organizations with web-based Java deployments face significant exposure risks. Security professionals should note that while this vulnerability specifically targets Java deployments in client environments, it can potentially affect server-side systems when they execute untrusted code from external sources. The attack scenario typically involves a user visiting a malicious website or executing a compromised Java application, which then leverages the RMI vulnerability to gain elevated privileges and execute arbitrary code within the Java environment. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations running legacy Java versions that may not have received timely security updates.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including mandatory Java version updates to patched releases, disabling Java plugin execution in web browsers, and implementing network-level firewalls to restrict unnecessary RMI traffic. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of remote services, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all Java installations that may be exposed to this vulnerability, particularly focusing on older Java versions that are no longer receiving security updates. The recommended remediation approach includes not only patching affected systems but also reevaluating the overall Java security posture and implementing more robust sandboxing mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities from compromising system integrity.