CVE-2017-10357 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: Serialization). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u161, 7u151, 8u144 and 9; Java SE Embedded: 8u144. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE, Java SE Embedded. 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. 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 5.3 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:L).
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-10357 resides within the serialization mechanism of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded platforms, representing a critical security flaw that affects multiple version ranges including Java SE 6u161, 7u151, 8u144, and 9, along with Java SE Embedded 8u144. This vulnerability specifically targets the serialization subsystem, which is responsible for converting Java objects into a format suitable for storage or transmission and subsequently reconstructing them. The flaw manifests in the way Java handles deserialization of untrusted data, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the platform's security boundaries. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers require minimal privileges and can leverage network-based attacks without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Java applications process data from untrusted sources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation during the deserialization process, allowing attackers to craft malicious serialized data that can execute arbitrary code when processed by vulnerable Java applications. This weakness falls under the broader category of deserialization vulnerabilities that are commonly categorized as CWE-502, which specifically addresses "Deserialization of Untrusted Data." The vulnerability's impact is primarily focused on availability rather than confidentiality or integrity, as evidenced by the CVSS 3.0 score of 5.3 with an availability impact rating of low. However, the potential for partial denial of service represents a significant operational risk that can disrupt business continuity and application availability. The attack vector requires network access and can be executed through multiple protocols, demonstrating the broad applicability of this exploit across different network environments and communication channels.
The operational implications of CVE-2017-10357 extend beyond simple service disruption, as it particularly affects sandboxed Java applications that are commonly deployed in client environments through Java Web Start applications or applets. These deployment scenarios typically occur in environments where users expect security boundaries to protect against malicious code execution, making the exploitation of this vulnerability particularly concerning. The vulnerability's applicability is limited to client-side deployments that load untrusted code, which aligns with the ATT&CK framework's concept of sandbox evasion techniques where adversaries attempt to bypass security controls through manipulation of trusted processes. Organizations running Java applications in server environments that only process trusted code are not affected by this vulnerability, highlighting the importance of proper application security boundaries and code isolation. The partial denial of service impact means that while complete system compromise may not occur, the availability of affected Java applications can be significantly degraded, potentially leading to user experience degradation and business disruption.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected Java versions, as Oracle has released security updates addressing this specific flaw. Organizations should also implement network-level controls to restrict access to Java-based applications where possible, and consider deploying additional security layers such as application firewalls or intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The implementation of secure coding practices, particularly around input validation and object deserialization, should be prioritized in all Java applications. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems running affected Java versions and implement proper security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping Java installations up to date and maintaining proper security hygiene in client-side application environments where sandboxed execution is relied upon for security protection.