CVE-2017-3252 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: JAAS). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u131, 7u121 and 8u112; Java SE Embedded: 8u111; JRockit: R28.3.12. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows low privileged 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 and while the vulnerability is in Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit, attacks may significantly impact additional products. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized creation, deletion or modification access to critical data or all Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit accessible data. Note: Applies to client and server deployment of Java. 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 v3.0 Base Score 5.8 (Integrity impacts).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3252 represents a significant security flaw within Oracle Java SE and JRockit components, specifically affecting the Java Authentication and Authorization Service JAAS subsystem. This weakness exists in multiple Java versions including Java SE 6u131, 7u121, and 8u112, Java SE Embedded 8u111, and JRockit R28.3.12, making it a widespread concern across various Java deployments. The vulnerability operates at a foundational level within the authentication framework, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate critical system data through unauthorized access channels. The issue manifests as a difficulty in exploitation, requiring specific conditions to be met, yet remains a serious threat due to its potential impact on data integrity and system security.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the JAAS component, which allows for improper handling of authentication requests. Attackers can leverage this weakness through network-based interactions using multiple protocols, making it particularly dangerous in environments where Java applications are exposed to external access. The vulnerability's design allows for exploitation through various vectors including sandboxed Java Web Start applications and applets, which are typically considered secure execution environments. However, this flaw undermines those security assumptions, enabling attackers to bypass expected protection mechanisms. The CVSS v3.0 base score of 5.8 indicates a moderate to high severity impact, primarily focused on integrity concerns that could lead to unauthorized data modification or deletion.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3252 extends beyond immediate data compromise to potentially affect entire Java deployment ecosystems. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized access to critical system data, with attackers capable of creating, deleting, or modifying sensitive information within the Java environment. The vulnerability's applicability to both client and server deployments means that organizations cannot simply isolate the risk to specific system components. Additionally, the requirement for human interaction from individuals other than the attacker introduces an element of social engineering that can make detection more challenging. This aspect aligns with ATT&CK framework concepts related to privilege escalation and credential access, where the vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources through compromised authentication processes.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including patching affected Java versions to the latest secure releases, as well as implementing network segmentation to limit exposure to external threats. The vulnerability's ability to be exploited through web services and APIs without requiring sandboxed execution environments means that traditional perimeter-based security measures may not provide adequate protection. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary Java applet and Web Start functionality where possible, and implement monitoring for unusual authentication patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification under CWE 284 (Improper Access Control) and its alignment with ATT&CK techniques for privilege escalation and credential access highlight the need for comprehensive security strategies that address both technical controls and operational procedures. Organizations must also evaluate their Java deployment practices to ensure that only necessary components are exposed to network access, reducing the attack surface available to potential exploiters.