CVE-2018-2582 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: Hotspot). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 8u152 and 9.0.1; Java SE Embedded: 8u151. 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. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized creation, deletion or modification access to critical data or all Java SE, Java SE Embedded accessible data. Note: This vulnerability 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 3.0 Base Score 6.5 (Integrity impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:N).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2021
This vulnerability resides within the Hotspot component of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded, specifically affecting versions 8u152 and 9.0.1 for Java SE, and 8u151 for Java SE Embedded. The flaw represents a critical integrity risk that can be exploited through multiple network protocols without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for environments where Java applications are deployed. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers can leverage it with minimal technical sophistication, though successful exploitation requires some form of human interaction beyond the initial network access.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the Hotspot JVM implementation that processes certain data inputs. Attackers can compromise the integrity of Java applications through sandboxed Web Start applications or applets, which are typically restricted from accessing system resources. However, this vulnerability allows bypassing these security boundaries, enabling unauthorized modification of critical data accessible to the Java runtime environment. The attack vector encompasses both client-side and server-side deployments, meaning that the vulnerability impacts the entire Java ecosystem regardless of deployment model.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data integrity concerns, as it can lead to unauthorized modification, deletion, or creation of critical system data. The CVSS 3.0 score of 6.5 indicates a moderate to high severity level with integrity impacts, while the vector analysis shows low attack complexity, no privilege requirements, and required human interaction. This vulnerability specifically targets the integrity aspect of the CIA triad, allowing attackers to modify data without detection, which can lead to cascading security failures. The fact that it can be exploited through web services or APIs without requiring sandboxed application execution makes it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of affected Java versions, as Oracle has released updates addressing this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit exposure of Java applications to untrusted networks, disable unnecessary Java runtime execution environments, and monitor for suspicious network activity related to Java processes. The vulnerability's applicability to both client and server deployments means that comprehensive security measures must be implemented across all Java installations. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting Java Web Start and applet execution to minimize attack surface. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation) and can be mapped to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation and data manipulation through compromised runtime environments.