Coastal Network Status

South Carolina Information Sharing and Analysis Center

SC INFORMATION SHARING AND ANALYSIS CENTER BULLETIN

DATE ISSUED: 11/28/2012

SUBJECT: Vulnerability in Oracle Java Runtime Environment Could Allow Remote Code Execution

OVERVIEW:

A vulnerability has been discovered in Oracle Java Runtime Environment (JRE) that can lead to remote code execution. The Java Runtime Environment is used to enhance the user experience when visiting websites and is installed on most desktops and servers. This vulnerability may be exploited if a user visits or is redirected to a specifically crafted web page. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in an attacker gaining the same privileges as the JRE application. Depending on the privileges associated with the application, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Failed exploit attempts will likely result in denial-of-service conditions.

Please note that there is no patch available from Oracle to mitigate this vulnerability at this time and this vulnerability is being sold in the underground markets.

DESCRIPTION:

A vulnerability has been discovered in Oracle Java Runtime Environment that can lead to remote code execution. In order to exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must first create a specially crafted web page or file designed to leverage this issue. When the web page is visited, or the file opened the attacker supplied code is run in the context of the affected application. This remote code execution vulnerability exists because the Java Runtime Environment does not properly handle audio input and output in the 'MidiDevice.Info' Java class.

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in an attacker gaining the same privileges as the JRE application. Depending on the privileges associated with the application, an attacker could then install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full user rights. Failed exploit attempts will likely result in denial-of-service conditions.

Please note that there is no patch available from Oracle to mitigate this vulnerability at this time and this vulnerability is being sold in the underground markets.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED:

Oracle JRE 1.7.0 Update 9 and earlier

RISK:

Government:

Large and medium government entities: High
Small government entities: High

Businesses:

Large and medium business entities: High
Small business entities: High

Home users: High

RECOMMENDATIONS:

We recommend the following actions be taken:

· Apply the patch from Oracle, after appropriate testing, as soon as one becomes available.

· Consider disabling Java completely on all systems until a patch is available.

· Block all traffic to the systems identified in this advisory.

· Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.

· Remind users not to visit un-trusted websites or follow links provided by unknown or un-trusted sources.

· Remind users not to open e-mail attachments from unknown users or suspicious e-mails from trusted sources.

REFERENCES:

SecurityFocus:

http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/56706

Krebs on Security:

https://krebsonsecurity.com/tag/mididevice-info/

Please feel free to contact the SC ISAC if you have any questions or need any additional information.

The SC ISAC will provide amplifying information as it becomes available.

SC-ISAC Contact Information

Email: SC-ISAC@cio.sc.gov

SC ISAC Security Line: 803-896-1650

24-hour hotline: +1 803-896-0001

Fax: +1 803-896-0375

Postal address:

SC-ISAC

DSIT Budget and Control Board

4430 Broad River Road

Columbia S.C. 29210

SC-ISAC is available via hotline 08:00-17:00 EST (GMT-5)/ EDT (GMT-4)

Monday through Friday

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