TippingPoint Zero Day Initiative
 

Oracle Java WebStart Changing System Properties Remote Code Execution Vulnerability

ZDI-12-189: December 21st, 2012

CVE ID

CVSS Score

Affected Vendors

Affected Products

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.

Vendor Response

Oracle has issued an update to correct this vulnerability. More details can be found at:

Disclosure Timeline

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

Credit

This vulnerability was discovered by:
    Chris Ries