CVE-2021-0537 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-0537 affecting Android-11 devices, enabling a local escalation of privilege. Understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
Android devices running Android-11 are vulnerable to CVE-2021-0537, which can allow attackers to perform a local escalation of privilege through a tapjacking/overlay attack in the WiFiInstaller.java file. User interaction is required for this exploit.
Understanding CVE-2021-0537
This section dives into the details of the CVE-2021-0537 vulnerability affecting Android devices.
What is CVE-2021-0537?
CVE-2021-0537 is a vulnerability in the onCreate function of WiFiInstaller.java on Android-11 devices. It enables threat actors to potentially install a malicious Hotspot 2.0 configuration, leading to local escalation of privilege.
The Impact of CVE-2021-0537
The exploitation of this vulnerability could grant unauthorized access to elevated privileges on the device, posing a serious security risk to user data and system integrity.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-0537
Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-0537 to understand how it affects Android devices.
Vulnerability Description
In the affected WiFiInstaller.java file, the vulnerability allows for a tapjacking/overlay attack, creating a pathway for the installation of a malicious Hotspot 2.0 configuration.
Affected Systems and Versions
Android devices running Android-11 are confirmed to be impacted by CVE-2021-0537, potentially leaving them exposed to exploitation.
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would need to engage the user in a way that triggers the installation of the malicious Hotspot 2.0 configuration through the tapjacking/overlay attack.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting your Android device from CVE-2021-0537 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to be cautious while interacting with unknown or suspicious interfaces to avoid inadvertently granting elevated privileges to malicious actors.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update your Android device to the latest security patches and versions to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-0537.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security bulletins and updates released by Android to patch vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-0537 and enhance the overall security posture of your device.