CVE-2021-35603 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth overview of CVE-2021-35603, a vulnerability found in Java SE and Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition that could potentially compromise sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2021-35603

CVE-2021-35603 is a vulnerability that affects Java SE JDK and JRE as well as Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition. The vulnerability lies in the JSSE component of Oracle Java SE.

What is CVE-2021-35603?

This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker with network access via TLS to compromise Java SE and Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized read access to specific data within these products.

The Impact of CVE-2021-35603

The vulnerability poses a low severity risk with a CVSS 3.1 Base Score of 3.7, primarily impacting confidentiality. Attackers can potentially access sensitive data within Java SE and GraalVM Enterprise Edition.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-35603

The vulnerability affects various versions of Java SE JDK and JRE as well as Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition. Affected versions include Java SE: 7u311, 8u301, 11.0.12, 17, Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition: 20.3.3, and 21.2.0.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is challenging to exploit and can be leveraged by an attacker through network access via TLS to compromise Java SE and Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition, leading to unauthorized data access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Java SE: 7u311, 8u301, 11.0.12, 17; Oracle GraalVM Enterprise Edition: 20.3.3, and 21.2.0 are confirmed to be affected by CVE-2021-35603.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker with network access via TLS, allowing them to compromise the affected Java SE and GraalVM Enterprise Edition instances.

Mitigation and Prevention

Given the severity of CVE-2021-35603, it is crucial to take immediate and long-term security measures to protect against potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant security patches and updates provided by Oracle Corporation to address the vulnerability and secure your Java SE and GraalVM Enterprise Edition installations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enhance security protocols, restrict network access, and regularly monitor for any suspicious activities to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-35603.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Oracle Corporation and promptly apply patches and updates to ensure your systems are protected from potential exploits.