Incident Response, TDR

Threat of the month: Java zero-day

What is it?

Yet another zero-day vulnerability in Java Runtime Environment (JRE) that allows remote code execution via browsers.

How does it work?

It can be triggered by a user simply viewing a web page embedding malicious Java content.

Should I be worried?

Yes, many of the Java vulnerabilities being exploited are types of errors that allow code execution in a completely reliable manner. 

How can I prevent it?

Users should upgrade to Java 7 Update 13, which Oracle released in early February – 18 days prior to its scheduled release – in response to reports of the vulnerability being actively exploited. This latest update addresses 50 vulnerabilities for Java SE products. One of these is the new zero-day, though it is currently unclear which one. As attacks targeting Java are increasing, and we could see new zero-days in the immediate future, users should also disable Java in browsers by default, only enabling it for trusted websites when needed.

Get daily email updates

SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news

By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

You can skip this ad in 5 seconds