CVE-2021-0590 : What You Need to Know

Android is found to have a vulnerability, CVE-2021-0590, that allows a privileged app to access WiFi BSSID and SSID without proper location permissions. This could result in local information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2021-0590

This CVE identifies a critical flaw in Android that could lead to an information disclosure risk.

What is CVE-2021-0590?

The vulnerability in the sendNetworkConditionsBroadcast of NetworkMonitor.java enables a privileged Android app to obtain WiFi BSSID and SSID without requiring location permissions, potentially leading to local information disclosure.

The Impact of CVE-2021-0590

Exploiting this vulnerability could allow a privileged app to access sensitive network information without the necessary permissions, posing a risk of local information exposure.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-0590

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in NetworkMonitor.java permits privileged Android applications to receive WiFi BSSID and SSID without the mandated location permissions, facilitating local information disclosure.

Affected Systems and Versions

Android versions Android-10, Android-11, Android-8.1, and Android-9 are impacted by this vulnerability, potentially affecting a wide range of Android devices.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the missing permission check in sendNetworkConditionsBroadcast, a privileged app can obtain WiFi BSSID and SSID without the necessary location permissions, leading to local information disclosure.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2021-0590 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to exercise caution while granting permissions to apps, especially those related to network access. Implementing least privilege principles can help reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Developers should prioritize implementing permission checks within apps to ensure that sensitive information like network details is accessed securely and with user consent.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating Android devices with the latest security patches and system updates is crucial to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-0590 and other security vulnerabilities.