Oracle Java WebStart Changing System Properties Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

December 21st, 2012
ZDI-12-189 ZDI-CAN-1501

CVE ID

CVE-2012-1721

CVSS Score

9.0 AV:N/AC:L/Au:N/C:P/I:P/A:C

Affected Vendors

Oracle

Affected Products

Java Runtime

Vulnerability Details


This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of Oracle Java. User interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability in that the target must visit a malicious page or open a malicious file.

The specific flaw exists because it is possible to change system properties through trusted JNLP files. If a JNLP file requests "<all-permissions/>" and only references signed, trusted JAR files, it can set all System properties. By referencing a trusted JNLP file from an untrusted one it is possible to change System Properties that can lead to remote code execution under the context of the current user.

Additional Details

Oracle has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:
http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/topics/security/javacpujun2012-1515912.html

Disclosure Timeline

  • 2012-03-14 - Vulnerability reported to vendor
  • 2012-12-21 - Coordinated public release of advisory

Credit

Chris Ries

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