CVE-2017-10345 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: Serialization). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u161, 7u151, 8u144 and 9; Java SE Embedded: 8u144; JRockit: R28.3.15. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized ability to cause a partial denial of service (partial DOS) of Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit. Note: This vulnerability can be exploited through sandboxed Java Web Start applications and sandboxed Java applets. It can also be exploited by supplying data to APIs in the specified Component without using sandboxed Java Web Start applications or sandboxed Java applets, such as through a web service. CVSS 3.0 Base Score 3.1 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:L).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10345 resides within the serialization component of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded platforms, specifically affecting versions including Java SE 6u161, 7u151, 8u144, and 9, along with Java SE Embedded 8u144 and JRockit R28.3.15. This represents a critical availability impact flaw that operates at the foundational level of Java's object serialization mechanism, which is integral to how Java applications handle data exchange and persistence. The vulnerability's classification as difficult to exploit indicates that while it requires specific conditions to be met, the attack surface is extensive given Java's widespread deployment across enterprise environments and web applications. The CVSS 3.0 base score of 3.1 reflects the relatively low complexity of exploitation but emphasizes the partial denial of service impact that can be achieved through successful exploitation.
The technical flaw manifests in the deserialization process where Java applications fail to properly validate serialized object data before processing it. This allows an attacker to craft malicious serialized objects that, when processed by vulnerable Java applications, can trigger unintended behavior. The vulnerability's exploitation requires network access and can be executed through multiple protocols, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Java applications are exposed to untrusted data inputs. The requirement for human interaction indicates that while the initial exploitation may be automated, successful compromise typically requires some form of user engagement such as clicking on a malicious link or visiting a compromised website. This aspect aligns with common attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under the Application Layer protocol execution techniques where adversaries leverage legitimate application interfaces to execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service, as it can be exploited through various vectors including sandboxed Java Web Start applications and applets, which are commonly used in enterprise environments for deploying business applications. The vulnerability's ability to be exploited without requiring sandboxed contexts makes it particularly dangerous, as it can compromise systems even when applications are running in restricted environments. Attackers can leverage web services, web applications, or any interface that accepts serialized data to deliver malicious payloads. The partial denial of service impact means that while complete system compromise may not be guaranteed, the vulnerability can significantly disrupt application availability and performance. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Java applications form the backbone of critical business processes, and the availability impact can cascade through interconnected systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-10345 should focus on immediate patching of affected Java versions, with organizations prioritizing the upgrade to supported Java releases that contain fixes for this serialization vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to Java applications that process untrusted data inputs, particularly those exposed to external networks. Input validation and sanitization measures should be strengthened to ensure that serialized data is properly validated before processing, which aligns with CWE-502 standards for deserialization security. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting and sandboxing techniques to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under the availability impact category means that organizations should also develop incident response procedures specifically addressing partial denial of service scenarios, ensuring that system administrators can quickly identify and respond to exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify additional vectors where similar deserialization vulnerabilities may exist within Java-based applications and services.