CVE-2021-0376 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-0376, a critical vulnerability in Android-11's MediaProvider.java that allows local privilege escalation. Find out the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.
Android's MediaProvider.java in Android-11 is vulnerable to an elevation of privilege issue that allows unauthorized access to external files without user interaction, potentially leading to local privilege escalation.
Understanding CVE-2021-0376
This CVE highlights a security vulnerability in Android-11 that could be exploited to achieve elevated privileges without the need for additional execution permissions.
What is CVE-2021-0376?
CVE-2021-0376 is a vulnerability found in checkUriPermission and related functions of MediaProvider.java in Android-11. It enables attackers to access external files due to a permissions bypass, which could result in a local escalation of privilege.
The Impact of CVE-2021-0376
This vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive external files stored on the affected Android devices. Attackers could exploit this flaw to escalate privileges locally.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-0376
This section covers the specific technical details of CVE-2021-0376.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in checkUriPermission and related functions of MediaProvider.java allows for unauthorized access to external files, potentially leading to local privilege escalation.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected system is Android-11. Devices running this version are vulnerable to the elevation of privilege issue in MediaProvider.java.
Exploitation Mechanism
By leveraging the permissions bypass in MediaProvider.java, threat actors can access external files without user interaction, exploiting the vulnerability for local privilege escalation.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-0376, users and organizations should take immediate steps and adopt long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
Ensure that Android-11 devices have the latest security patches installed. Monitor for any unusual file access or privilege escalation attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update Android devices with the latest firmware releases to mitigate known vulnerabilities. Implement access controls and permissions management to limit unauthorized file access.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security bulletins from Android to promptly apply patches addressing CVE-2021-0376 and other security issues.