CVE-2017-3514 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: AWT). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u141, 7u131 and 8u121. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE. Successful attacks require human interaction from a person other than the attacker and while the vulnerability is in Java SE, attacks may significantly impact additional products. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in takeover of Java SE. 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 8.3 (Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-3514 represents a critical security flaw within the AWT (Abstract Window Toolkit) component of Oracle Java SE, affecting versions 6u141, 7u131, and 8u121. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple cybersecurity domains and demonstrates how seemingly isolated component flaws can cascade into severe system compromises. The AWT subsystem serves as the foundational GUI framework for Java applications, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to undermine the security model of Java-based applications. The vulnerability's classification as difficult to exploit indicates that while the attack vector requires specific conditions, the potential impact is substantial enough to warrant immediate attention from security professionals.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the AWT component that processes graphical user interface elements. Attackers can leverage this weakness through network-based protocols to execute malicious code within the Java sandbox environment. The CVSS 3.0 scoring of 8.3 reflects the high severity across all impact vectors, indicating that successful exploitation could result in complete compromise of the Java SE environment. This vulnerability specifically targets the client-side execution model where Java Web Start applications and applets operate within restricted sandbox environments, making it particularly dangerous in contexts where users interact with untrusted internet content. The requirement for human interaction suggests that social engineering or user deception plays a crucial role in successful exploitation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1203 for "Exploitation for Client Execution" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter" within the enterprise attack framework.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-3514 extends beyond simple system compromise, potentially enabling attackers to gain complete control over affected Java environments while maintaining persistence through various attack vectors. The vulnerability's potential to affect additional products demonstrates how Java SE flaws can propagate through interconnected systems, particularly in enterprise environments where Java-based applications serve as critical infrastructure components. Organizations running affected Java versions face significant risk of data breaches, system infiltration, and potential lateral movement attacks. The vulnerability's applicability to sandboxed environments means that even when administrators implement standard security measures, the inherent weakness in the AWT subsystem can be exploited to bypass traditional security controls. This aligns with CWE-122, which describes "Heap Overflow" vulnerabilities, and reflects the broader category of memory corruption flaws that can enable arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patch deployment across all affected Java installations, particularly in client environments where users interact with internet-based applications. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify potentially affected systems. The recommended approach includes disabling Java applets and Web Start applications where possible, implementing strict code signing policies, and monitoring for suspicious network activity. Security teams should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to Java-based vulnerabilities. Given the vulnerability's network accessibility and the requirement for human interaction, organizations must also implement user awareness training to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that could lead to successful exploitation. The complexity of this vulnerability's exploitation requirements makes it particularly challenging for automated attacks but still poses significant risk through targeted social engineering campaigns.