CVE-2021-0385 : What You Need to Know

Android has been found to have a vulnerability that could result in elevation of privilege. The issue exists in the ConnectToNetworkNotificationBuilder.java file, allowing potential connection to untrusted WiFi networks through notification interaction above the lock screen without requiring user interaction. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed.

Understanding CVE-2021-0385

This section will cover the key details related to CVE-2021-0385.

What is CVE-2021-0385?

CVE-2021-0385 is a vulnerability in Android affecting version Android-11. It enables attackers to connect to untrusted WiFi networks without user interaction, potentially leading to local privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2021-0385

The impact of this vulnerability is the elevation of privilege, which could allow malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to resources that would otherwise be restricted.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-0385

Let's dive into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-0385.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the createConnectToAvailableNetworkNotification function of ConnectToNetworkNotificationBuilder.java. It permits connections to untrusted WiFi networks via notifications displayed above the lock screen.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is Android, specifically version Android-11. Users operating on this version may be susceptible to the exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploit occurs as a result of notification interaction above the lock screen, allowing untrusted WiFi network connections without the need for user intervention.

Mitigation and Prevention

To secure systems from CVE-2021-0385, the following steps should be considered.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should be cautious with WiFi networks and avoid connecting to untrusted networks, especially when notifications appear above the lock screen.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Android operating system to patch vulnerabilities and ensure system security.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to install security patches released by Android to address CVE-2021-0385 and other potential security risks.