CVE-2021-0973 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2021-0973, a vulnerability in Android that could lead to local information disclosure. Read on to understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-0973

CVE-2021-0973 is a vulnerability in Android that allows bypassing file://URI attachment checks, potentially leading to local information disclosure without the need for additional privileges.

What is CVE-2021-0973?

CVE-2021-0973 involves improper handling of case sensitivity in the isFileUri function of UriUtil.java in Android. This flaw could be exploited by an attacker to disclose local information by bypassing URI attachment checks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-0973

The impact of CVE-2021-0973 is the potential disclosure of local information without requiring any extra execution privileges. Successful exploitation depends on user interaction.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-0973

CVE-2021-0973 affects Android versions, specifically Android-12. Here are the technical details:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the isFileUri function of UriUtil.java, enabling a method to bypass file://URI attachment checks due to case sensitivity mishandling.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Android, with the impacted version being Android-12.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-0973 involves leveraging the improper handling of case sensitivity in file://URI attachment, leading to information disclosure with user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-0973, follow these guidelines:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Android to the latest patched version that addresses this vulnerability.
Be cautious when interacting with unknown files or links to prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update your Android device to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Enable security features such as file permission restrictions to limit unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins from Android and apply patches promptly to protect your device from known vulnerabilities.