CVE-2023-22036 in Java SE
Summary
by MITRE • 07/19/2023
Vulnerability in the Oracle Java SE, Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition, Oracle GraalVM for JDK product of Oracle Java SE (component: Utility). Supported versions that are affected are Oracle Java SE: 11.0.19, 17.0.7, 20.0.1; Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition: 20.3.10, 21.3.6, 22.3.2; Oracle GraalVM for JDK: 17.0.7 and 20.0.1. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows unauthenticated attacker with network access via multiple protocols to compromise Oracle Java SE, Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition, Oracle GraalVM for JDK. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized ability to cause a partial denial of service (partial DOS) of Oracle Java SE, Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition, Oracle GraalVM for JDK. Note: This vulnerability can be exploited by using APIs in the specified Component, e.g., through a web service which supplies data to the APIs. This vulnerability also 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. CVSS 3.1 Base Score 3.7 (Availability impacts). CVSS Vector: (CVSS:3.1/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 • 02/19/2025
This vulnerability resides within the utility component of Oracle Java SE and GraalVM products, representing a significant security concern for organizations utilizing these platforms. The flaw affects multiple versions including Java SE 11.0.19, 17.0.7, and 20.0.1, along with various GraalVM editions, making it a widespread issue across the Java ecosystem. The vulnerability's classification as difficult to exploit suggests that while it requires specific conditions for successful exploitation, the potential impact remains substantial enough to warrant immediate attention from security teams.
The technical nature of this vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to compromise affected systems through multiple network protocols, indicating a broad attack surface that could be leveraged from remote locations. This characteristic aligns with common attack patterns identified in the MITRE ATT&CK framework where adversaries often exploit network-based vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access. The partial denial of service impact means that while complete system compromise may not be achievable, the vulnerability can significantly disrupt operations and availability of critical Java-based applications. The CVSS score of 3.7 reflects the moderate severity level, with availability impact being the primary concern.
The exploitation mechanism specifically targets APIs within the affected component, suggesting that web services and applications that rely on these APIs could be particularly vulnerable. This attack vector is particularly concerning for environments where Java Web Start applications or applets are deployed, as these sandboxed environments may not provide adequate protection against this particular vulnerability. The fact that this vulnerability affects both server-side deployments and client-side applications running untrusted code demonstrates its broad applicability across different deployment scenarios.
Organizations should prioritize patching efforts for all affected versions, as the vulnerability's presence in multiple product lines requires comprehensive remediation. The security implications extend beyond simple availability impacts, as denial of service conditions can disrupt business operations and potentially create opportunities for further exploitation. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and demonstrates how seemingly minor utility component flaws can have significant operational consequences. The affected configurations include not only standard Java installations but also specialized GraalVM deployments, emphasizing the need for thorough vulnerability assessment across all Java-related components within an organization's infrastructure.