CVE-2021-25396 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-25396 affecting Samsung Mobile Devices with Q(10.0) and R(11.0) versions, allowing arbitrary memory write and code execution. Discover impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
An improper input validation vulnerability in NPU firmware prior to SMR MAY-2021 Release 1 allows arbitrary memory write and code execution.
Understanding CVE-2021-25396
This CVE affects Samsung Mobile Devices and is identified as an improper input validation vulnerability in NPU firmware.
What is CVE-2021-25396?
CVE-2021-25396 is a vulnerability found in Samsung Mobile Devices, specifically affecting devices using Q(10.0) and R(11.0) versions prior to SMR MAY-2021 Release 1. This vulnerability allows malicious actors to perform arbitrary memory writes and execute code.
The Impact of CVE-2021-25396
The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM severity with HIGH confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Attackers with high privileges can exploit this vulnerability locally without user interaction, leading to arbitrary code execution.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-25396
This section provides details regarding the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability lies in the NPU firmware of Samsung Mobile Devices, allowing for improper input validation, resulting in arbitrary memory writes and potential code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
Samsung Mobile Devices running Q(10.0) and R(11.0) versions are impacted if they are not updated to SMR MAY-2021 Release 1.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with high privileges can locally exploit this vulnerability, leveraging the improper input validation in the NPU firmware to write to arbitrary memory locations and execute malicious code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-25396, immediate steps should be taken along with implementing long-term security practices and applying necessary patches and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
Ensure that Samsung Mobile Devices are updated to SMR MAY-2021 Release 1 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update and patch Samsung Mobile Devices to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure overall system security.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates provided by Samsung Mobile and promptly apply patches to maintain the security of the devices.