CVE-2017-10111 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: Libraries). The supported version that is affected is Java SE: 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
This vulnerability resides within the Java SE and Java SE Embedded components, specifically within the Libraries subcomponent of Oracle's Java platform. The flaw affects Java SE version 8u131 and Java SE Embedded version 8u131, representing a critical security weakness that can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers over network connections. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers can leverage multiple protocols to compromise affected systems without requiring authentication or specialized access privileges. The attack vector operates through network-based exploitation, making it particularly dangerous for environments where Java applications are executed in sandboxed environments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the Java runtime environment's library components. When Java applications execute in sandboxed environments such as Java Web Start applications or applets, they rely heavily on the Java sandbox security model to prevent unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw allows attackers to bypass these security boundaries through carefully crafted malicious code that can be delivered over the network. The requirement for human interaction indicates that while the initial exploitation may require user engagement, once initiated, the vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise. This characteristic aligns with common attack patterns where social engineering or user deception facilitates initial access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate system compromise to potentially affect additional products and services within the broader ecosystem. Successful exploitation can result in complete takeover of Java SE and Java SE Embedded environments, providing attackers with full control over affected systems. The CVSS 3.0 base score of 9.6 reflects the high severity of this vulnerability, with scores of 8.0 for confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts indicating that attackers can simultaneously compromise all three core security principles. This level of impact is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Java applications are extensively deployed for business-critical operations.
The vulnerability specifically targets deployments where untrusted code is loaded and executed, typically in client environments running sandboxed Java applications. This includes scenarios where users browse the internet and encounter malicious web content that triggers the vulnerable Java runtime. The security model assumes that Java applets and Web Start applications will only execute trusted code, but this vulnerability demonstrates that attackers can circumvent these protections. This weakness directly relates to CWE-264, which covers permissions, privileges, and access control issues, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application, emphasizing how attackers can leverage network-accessible Java applications to gain system access.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected Java installations to version 8u141 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict access to Java applications where possible, particularly for client systems that do not require Java execution. Browser vendors have also recommended disabling Java plugin execution in web browsers to prevent automatic exploitation. Additionally, administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of Java deployments to identify and remove unnecessary Java installations, particularly in server environments where Java is not required for legitimate business operations. Regular security assessments should include verification that Java applications are not running with elevated privileges and that proper sandboxing mechanisms remain effective. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against exploitation of runtime vulnerabilities in widely deployed software platforms.