CVE-2018-2814 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: 6u181, 7u171, 8u162 and 10; Java SE Embedded: 8u161. Difficult to exploit 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 and while the vulnerability is in Java SE, Java SE Embedded, attacks may significantly impact additional products. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in takeover 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 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 • 03/02/2023
This vulnerability resides within the Hotspot component of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded platforms, representing a critical security flaw that affects specific version ranges including Java SE 6u181, 7u171, 8u162, and 10, alongside Java SE Embedded 8u161. The vulnerability operates at the core of Java's runtime environment where bytecode execution occurs, making it particularly dangerous for applications that rely on the Java sandbox security model. The flaw's classification as difficult to exploit indicates that while it requires specific conditions to be met, the attack surface remains significant given Java's widespread deployment across client systems. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond individual Java installations to potentially compromise entire ecosystems where Java applications operate, particularly in environments where users interact with untrusted code sources.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the Hotspot JVM that processes Java bytecode, allowing for potential code execution outside of the intended security boundaries. This flaw operates through multiple network protocols, providing attackers with various attack vectors to exploit the vulnerability. The requirement for human interaction indicates that while the initial exploitation may be complex, social engineering elements could be leveraged to successfully compromise systems. The CVSS 3.0 score of 8.3 reflects the severity of potential impacts across confidentiality, integrity, and availability dimensions, with the vector AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H indicating network-based access with high complexity, no privilege requirements, and requiring user interaction. This vulnerability specifically targets the sandboxed execution environments where Java Web Start applications and applets operate, making it particularly relevant for client-side Java deployments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial, as successful exploitation can lead to complete takeover of affected Java SE and Java SE Embedded environments. This represents a critical compromise that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the Java runtime process, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability's applicability to client-side deployments means that end users who browse the internet or execute untrusted Java applications become potential targets. Organizations relying on Java-based applications for business operations face significant risk, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or disrupt business processes. The fact that this vulnerability affects multiple Java versions indicates a persistent flaw in the Hotspot implementation that required patches across several release lines, highlighting the complexity and severity of the underlying issue.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of affected Java installations, particularly within client environments where untrusted code execution occurs. Organizations should implement strict Java security policies that disable unnecessary Java applet and Web Start functionality, especially in environments where users interact with untrusted content. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit Java-related network access where possible, reducing the attack surface. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the dangers of executing untrusted Java code and the importance of keeping Java installations updated. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Java-based execution, and CWE-250 for execution of code with elevated privileges. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual Java process behavior and network connections originating from Java applications, as these activities may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments should verify that Java installations are not running in environments where untrusted code execution is permitted, particularly in server environments where such risks are typically mitigated through proper security configuration.