CVE-2019-2697 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE component of Oracle Java SE (subcomponent: 2D). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 7u211 and 8u202. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE. 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 (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 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 8.1 (Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2025
This vulnerability resides within the Java SE 2D graphics component and represents a critical security flaw that affects Java SE versions 7u211 and 8u202. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated exploitation mechanism that allows unauthenticated attackers to compromise Java SE deployments without requiring any authentication credentials. The attack vector involves network access through multiple protocols, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged across various network communication channels. The CVSS score of 8.1 indicates a high severity threat that impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously, demonstrating the comprehensive nature of the potential compromise.
The technical flaw manifests in the 2D graphics rendering subsystem where improper input validation and memory handling create opportunities for attackers to execute arbitrary code within the Java runtime environment. This vulnerability specifically targets sandboxed Java Web Start applications and applets that load untrusted code from the internet, exploiting weaknesses in the security boundaries that should protect against malicious code execution. The vulnerability's difficulty level is classified as hard to exploit, suggesting that while sophisticated, it remains achievable through carefully crafted attacks that can bypass standard security mechanisms. The attack requires network access but does not need user interaction, making it particularly insidious as it can be automated and deployed at scale.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as successful exploitation can result in complete takeover of the affected Java SE environment. This represents a severe threat to enterprise security infrastructure, particularly in environments where Java applications are deployed to handle sensitive data processing or serve as part of critical business operations. The vulnerability's applicability to client-side deployments where untrusted code execution is permitted creates significant exposure points for organizations, especially those with legacy systems running older Java versions. The security implications are further exacerbated by the fact that this vulnerability can be exploited through multiple network protocols, increasing the attack surface and reducing the effectiveness of traditional network-based security controls.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through patch management programs targeting the specific affected Java versions, as the vulnerability directly impacts the core security model of Java applications. The recommended mitigation strategy involves comprehensive patch deployment across all affected systems, with particular attention to client environments where Java Web Start applications and applets are actively used. Security teams should implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, while also reviewing existing security policies to ensure that untrusted code execution is properly restricted. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-119, which addresses weaknesses in memory handling and buffer overflows, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for application layer execution, highlighting the need for layered security approaches that include both endpoint protection and network monitoring capabilities to effectively defend against such sophisticated attacks.