CVE-2021-0538 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2021-0538 article provides an in-depth understanding of the security vulnerability affecting Android devices running Android-11, potentially leading to an elevation of privilege through a tapjacking/overlay attack.

Understanding CVE-2021-0538

CVE-2021-0538 is a security vulnerability present in the EmergencyCallbackModeExitDialog.java file on Android-11 devices, allowing a potential exit of emergency callback mode via a tapjacking/overlay attack. Successful exploitation could result in the escalation of local privilege.

What is CVE-2021-0538?

The CVE-2021-0538 vulnerability in Android-11 occurs in the onCreate function of EmergencyCallbackModeExitDialog.java, requiring user interaction for activation. The issue could lead to an elevation of privilege, demanding user execution privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2021-0538

The impact of CVE-2021-0538 lies in the chance for a local escalation of privilege on Android-11 devices through a tapjacking/overlay attack, necessitating user interaction for successful exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-0538

CVE-2021-0538 affects Android-11 devices through the EmergencyCallbackModeExitDialog.java file, introducing a potential exit from emergency callback mode via a tapjacking/overlay attack.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in EmergencyCallbackModeExitDialog.java allows for a possible exit from emergency callback mode on Android-11 devices, creating conditions for a local privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Android Versions: Android-11

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2021-0538 involves a tapjacking/overlay attack on Android-11 devices, requiring user interaction for execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-0538, immediate steps and long-term security practices are essential to ensure the safety of Android-11 devices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should stay vigilant against potential tapjacking/overlay attacks and be cautious with user interactions on Android-11 devices to mitigate the risk of escalation of privilege.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong user awareness, keeping systems up-to-date, and utilizing secure practices can help prevent similar vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitoring security bulletins and promptly applying official patches issued by Android for Android-11 devices is crucial to mitigate CVE-2021-0538 and other potential security risks.