CriticalPublic exploit

Stack-based buffer overflow in Java AWT setDiffICM

IdentifiersCVE-2009-3869CWE-121

CVE-2009-3869 is a stack-based buffer overflow in the setDiffICM function in the Abstract Window Toolkit (AWT) component of Sun Java SE / Java Runtime Environment. The issue affects JDK and JRE 5.0 before Update 22, JDK and JRE 6 before Update 17, SDK and JRE 1.3.x before 1.3.1_27, and SDK and JRE 1.4.x before 1.4.2_24. A remote attacker can trigger the flaw by supplying a crafted argument that causes improper bounds handling in setDiffICM, leading to memory corruption on the stack and potential arbitrary code execution. The issue is also identified as Sun Bug Id 6872357.

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ANALYST BRIEF

Impact, mitigation & remediation

What it means. What to do now. Patch path, mitigations, and the assume-compromise checklist.

Impact

What an attacker gets, and what they’ve been doing with it.

Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution in the context of the affected Java process. Because the flaw is remotely triggerable via crafted input processed by the vulnerable AWT functionality, an attacker may be able to fully compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the targeted application or host under the privileges of the running JRE/JDK process.

Mitigation

If you can’t patch tonight, do this now.

If immediate patching is not possible, reduce exposure by limiting execution of untrusted Java content and restricting delivery paths for attacker-controlled input that could reach the vulnerable AWT code. Disable or tightly control use of Java applets or other remote Java content where applicable, and run affected Java applications with the least privileges possible to reduce post-exploitation impact. These are temporary measures; upgrading to a fixed release is the proper mitigation.

Remediation

Patch, then assume compromise.

Upgrade to a fixed Java release: JDK/JRE 5.0 Update 22 or later, JDK/JRE 6 Update 17 or later, SDK/JRE 1.3.1_27 or later in the 1.3.x line, or SDK/JRE 1.4.2_24 or later in the 1.4.x line. More generally, apply the relevant Oracle/Sun security updates that address Bug Id 6872357.

PUBLIC EXPLOITS

Exploits

1 valid exploit after Mallory filtered fakes, detection scripts, and README-only repos.

VALID 1 / 1 TOTALView more in app

java_setdifficm_bof.rbMaturityWeaponizedFrameworkmetasploitVerified exploit

This repository contains a single Metasploit module (modules/exploits/multi/browser/java_setdifficm_bof.rb) that exploits a buffer overflow vulnerability in the setDiffICM function of the Sun Java JRE (CVE-2009-3869). The exploit acts as an HTTP server, serving a malicious Java applet (CVE-2009-3869.jar) to clients who visit the server with a vulnerable Java-enabled browser. The module supports multiple platforms (Windows and Mac OS X) and architectures (x86, PPC), and can deliver any Metasploit payload that fits within the size constraints. The exploit is weaponized, allowing for customizable payloads and automated exploitation via the Metasploit framework. The main attack vector is through a browser visiting the attacker's server, which triggers the Java applet and exploits the vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the client. The only fingerprintable endpoint is the malicious JAR file served by the module.

Disclosed Nov 4, 2009rubybrowsernetwork

EXPOSURE SURFACE

Affected products & vendors

Products and vendors Mallory has correlated with this vulnerability. Open in Mallory to drill down to specific CPE configurations and version ranges.

VendorProductType

SunJdkapplication

SunJreapplication

SunSdkapplication

Vendor-confirmed product mapping. Mallory continuously reconciles this list against your asset inventory.

ACTIVITY FEED

Recent activity

1 sources tracked across advisories and community write-ups. News coverage will land here when it surfaces.

1 SOURCESView more in app

No news coverage yet. Advisories and community discussion only.

What this page doesn’t show

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Exposure mapping

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Threat actor evidence

Every observed campaign linking this CVE to a named adversary.

Associated malware

Malware families riding this exploit, with evidence and IOCs.

Detection signatures

YARA, Sigma, Snort, and vendor rules, auto-deployed to your SIEM.

Vendor-by-vendor mapping

Cross-references every affected SKU, including bundled OEM variants.

Social activity