CVE-2018-21090 : What You Need to Know

A problem has been identified on Samsung smartphones running software up to November 3, 2017, particularly affecting devices equipped with S.LSI modem chipsets. The Exynos modem chipset is susceptible to a baseband buffer overflow issue, which has been assigned the Samsung identification code SVE-2017-10745 in January 2018.

Understanding CVE-2018-21090

An issue was discovered on Samsung mobile devices with software through 2017-11-03 (S.LSI modem chipsets). The Exynos modem chipset has a baseband buffer overflow. The Samsung ID is SVE-2017-10745 (January 2018).

What is CVE-2018-21090?

CVE-2018-21090 is a vulnerability found in Samsung smartphones with software up to November 3, 2017, specifically affecting devices using S.LSI modem chipsets. The Exynos modem chipset is at risk due to a baseband buffer overflow issue.

The Impact of CVE-2018-21090

This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service on affected Samsung smartphones. It poses a significant security risk to user data and device functionality.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-21090

Samsung smartphones with S.LSI modem chipsets are vulnerable to a baseband buffer overflow issue.

Vulnerability Description

The Exynos modem chipset in Samsung devices is prone to a baseband buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or denial of service attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Samsung smartphones running software up to November 3, 2017
Devices equipped with S.LSI modem chipsets

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted signals to the Exynos modem chipset, triggering the buffer overflow and gaining unauthorized access to the device.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to address and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2018-21090.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Samsung smartphones to the latest software version provided by the manufacturer.
Regularly check for security updates and patches from Samsung to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong device security measures such as using complex passwords and enabling device encryption.
Avoid connecting to unsecured networks and be cautious of downloading apps from unknown sources.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates released by Samsung promptly to protect devices from potential exploits of CVE-2018-21090.