Risk
High
Date Discovered
December 3, 2008
Description
Sun Java Runtime Environment and Java Development Kit are prone to multiple security vulnerabilities.
Successful exploits may allow attackers to violate the same-origin policy, obtain sensitive information, bypass security restrictions, run untrusted applets with elevated privileges, and cause denial-of-service conditions. This may result in a compromise of affected computers.
These issues affect versions *prior to* the following:
JDK and JRE 6 Update 11
JDK and JRE 5.0 Update 17
SDK and JRE 1.4.2_19
SDK and JRE 1.3.1_24
Recommendations
Block external access at the network boundary, unless external parties require service.
If global access isn't needed, filter access to the affected computer at the network boundary. Restricting access to only trusted computers and networks might greatly reduce the likelihood of successful exploits.Run all software as a nonprivileged user with minimal access rights.
To reduce the impact of latent vulnerabilities, always run nonadministrative software as an unprivileged user with minimal access rights.Deploy network intrusion detection systems to monitor network traffic for malicious activity.
Deploy NIDS to monitor network traffic for signs of anomalous or suspicious activity including unexplained incoming and outgoing traffic. This may indicate exploit attempts or activity that results from successful exploits.Do not follow links provided by unknown or untrusted sources.
Do not use client software to visit sites of unknown or questionable integrity. This may limit exposure to this and other latent vulnerabilities.
Updates are available. Please see the references for more information.
Credits
An anonymous researcher working with ZDI, iDefense, Sebastian Apelt working with iDefense, Peter Csepely working with ZDI, Virtual Security Research, Billy Rios of Microsoft and Nate, Mcfeters of Ernst and Young, Peter Csepely working with ZDI and John Heasman of NGSSoftware, Francisco Amato, Stefan Middendorf from Cirosec, Sami Koivu, regenrecht working with iDefense, Henri Torgemane and Sami Koivu, Jan Grant of Bristol University, Adam Gowdiak, University of Oulu
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Disclaimer
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