CVE-2019-2962 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Java SE, Java SE Embedded product of Oracle Java SE (component: 2D). Supported versions that are affected are Java SE: 7u231, 8u221, 11.0.4 and 13; Java SE Embedded: 8u221. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Java SE, Java SE Embedded. 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. 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 3.7 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:N/A:L).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/09/2024
This vulnerability resides within the 2D graphics component of Oracle Java SE and Java SE Embedded platforms, representing a significant security weakness that affects multiple version streams including Java SE 7u231, 8u221, 11.0.4, and 13, alongside Java SE Embedded 8u221. The flaw manifests as a difficulty in exploitation yet remains accessible to unauthenticated attackers who can leverage network protocols to compromise affected systems. The vulnerability's classification under CVSS 3.0 with a base score of 3.7 indicates a moderate risk level, specifically targeting availability impacts with a low confidentiality and integrity score. This vulnerability operates within the context of sandboxed environments where Java Web Start applications or applets typically execute untrusted code from internet sources, relying on Java's security sandbox mechanisms for protection. The attack vector requires network access and operates with high complexity, suggesting that while exploitation is challenging, it remains feasible for determined adversaries.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of 2D graphics operations within the Java runtime environment, creating potential pathways for attackers to manipulate memory or execution flow within sandboxed applications. This weakness allows for partial denial of service conditions that can disrupt normal Java application operations without necessarily providing complete system compromise. The vulnerability's applicability extends beyond traditional client-side applications to include web services that utilize the affected 2D APIs, expanding the potential attack surface significantly. Security researchers categorize this type of vulnerability under CWE-476, which addresses null pointer dereference conditions that can lead to system instability and service disruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability affects organizations running Java-based applications in environments where untrusted code execution is permitted, particularly in web applet deployments and sandboxed Java Web Start applications. System administrators must consider the implications for enterprise environments where legacy Java applications continue to operate, as these deployments may not receive timely updates or patches. The partial denial of service condition can manifest through various symptoms including application hangs, memory exhaustion, or process termination, ultimately affecting user productivity and system availability. Organizations utilizing Java-based web applications or embedded systems must evaluate their exposure to this vulnerability, particularly those environments that rely on the Java sandbox for security isolation.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected Java versions, implementing network segmentation to limit access to vulnerable Java installations, and establishing monitoring protocols for unusual denial of service patterns. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary Java applet support in web browsers and implementing strict content filtering policies for web services that utilize the affected 2D APIs. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting weaknesses in software to establish persistent access or cause system disruption. Security teams should implement layered defenses including network firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular vulnerability assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses across their Java-based infrastructure. Additionally, organizations should consider migrating legacy Java applications to more modern platforms that do not exhibit these types of sandbox escape vulnerabilities, particularly in environments where the attack surface cannot be adequately controlled through traditional network security measures.