CVE-2018-3214 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: Sound). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 6u201, 7u191 and 8u182; Java SE Embedded: 8u181; JRockit: R28.3.19. Easily exploitable vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE, Java SE Embedded, JRockit. 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, JRockit. Note: This vulnerability applies to Java deployments, typically in clients running sandboxed Java Web Start applications or sandboxed Java applets (in Java SE 8), that load and run untrusted code (e.g., code that comes from the internet) and rely on the Java sandbox for security. This vulnerability can also be exploited by using APIs in the specified Component, e.g. through a web service which supplies data to the APIs. 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).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-3214 resides within the Java Sound component of Oracle Java SE and JRockit implementations, representing a significant security weakness that affects multiple Java runtime versions. This flaw specifically targets the sound subsystem functionality and operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as a weakness related to improper input validation and resource management. The vulnerability's classification as easily exploitable indicates that attackers can leverage it without requiring specialized skills or privileged access, making it particularly dangerous in production environments where Java applications are deployed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through network-based attacks that utilize multiple protocols to compromise affected Java implementations. The attack vector operates at the network level with low attack complexity and no authentication requirements, enabling unauthorized actors to execute malicious code against vulnerable systems. When successfully exploited, the vulnerability enables attackers to perform partial denial of service operations against Java SE, Java SE Embedded, and JRockit environments. This availability impact is particularly concerning because it can disrupt legitimate application functionality while maintaining the system's operational state, creating a subtle but effective attack method that may go unnoticed for extended periods.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-3214 extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass broader system compromise potential within sandboxed Java environments. This vulnerability specifically affects deployments where untrusted code is executed within sandboxed contexts such as Java Web Start applications or applets, which rely on Java's security model for protection. The attack surface includes web services that utilize the affected Sound component APIs, allowing for exploitation through data injection methods that bypass traditional security controls. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in environments where Java applications process data from untrusted sources, as the attack can be initiated through legitimate application interfaces that are not properly secured against malicious input.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying Oracle's security patches and updates to affected Java versions, which address the root cause of the sound subsystem vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to Java applications where possible, particularly in environments where untrusted code execution is permitted. The implementation of additional monitoring and logging for Java application behavior can help detect anomalous activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider disabling unnecessary Java applet and Web Start functionality in browsers and application environments where these features are not required for business operations. The vulnerability's CVSS score of 5.3 reflects its moderate severity but underscores the need for proactive remediation, as the partial denial of service impact can significantly affect application availability and user experience. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK framework techniques related to privilege escalation and denial of service operations, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive security posture management and regular vulnerability assessment activities.