CVE-2021-0516 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-0516, an elevation of privilege vulnerability in Android that could allow remote attackers to escalate privileges without user interaction. Find mitigation strategies here.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-0516, a vulnerability found in Android that could lead to a remote escalation of privilege without the need for user interaction.
Understanding CVE-2021-0516
This section delves into the nature of the CVE-2021-0516 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2021-0516?
CVE-2021-0516 is identified as an elevation of privilege vulnerability present in the Android operating system. It resides in the p2p_process_prov_disc_req function of the p2p_pd.c file.
The Impact of CVE-2021-0516
The vulnerability could result in a potential out-of-bounds read and write scenario due to a use after free issue. This could ultimately lead to a remote escalation of privilege, requiring no additional execution privileges. Notably, user interaction is not a prerequisite for exploitation.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-0516
This section provides a closer look at the technical aspects of CVE-2021-0516.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises due to a use after free scenario in the p2p_process_prov_disc_req function of the p2p_pd.c file, allowing for an out-of-bounds read and write.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected product is Android, with specific vulnerable versions including Android-11, Android-8.1, Android-9, and Android-10.
Exploitation Mechanism
Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a remote escalation of privilege without requiring any additional execution privileges, and no user interaction is necessary for an attacker to exploit this flaw.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, we discuss strategies for mitigating the risks posed by CVE-2021-0516.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is crucial to apply security patches promptly to address the CVE-2021-0516 vulnerability. Organizations and individuals using affected versions of Android should prioritize updating to the latest secure versions.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing robust security measures, such as regularly updating software, conducting security audits, and educating users on best security practices, can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Staying informed about security bulletins and updates from Android is essential to remain protected against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-0516.