CVE-2021-27941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the eWeLink mobile application versions up to 4.9.2 on Android and up to 4.9.1 on iOS could allow a physically proximate attacker to intercept sensitive information during a device pairing process.

Understanding CVE-2021-27941

This CVE describes a flaw in the QR code pairing mode of the eWeLink app that could lead to unauthorized access to Wi-Fi credentials and other confidential data.

What is CVE-2021-27941?

The vulnerability allows attackers in close physical proximity to the device to exploit the QR code pairing mode and eavesdrop on private encryption keys, potentially compromising the security of the device.

The Impact of CVE-2021-27941

An attacker could intercept Wi-Fi credentials and other sensitive information by monitoring the Wi-Fi spectrum during the device pairing process, posing a significant privacy and security risk to users.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-27941

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw enables unrestricted web access to the device's private encryption key, facilitating unauthorized access to sensitive data during the pairing process.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue affects eWeLink mobile application versions up to 4.9.2 on Android and up to 4.9.1 on iOS.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by being physically close to the device and monitoring the Wi-Fi spectrum during the device pairing process.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against CVE-2021-27941 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the eWeLink app to the latest version, apply patches, and avoid pairing devices in untrusted environments.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance security, users should regularly update their apps, use secure Wi-Fi networks, and avoid sharing sensitive information during device pairing.

Patching and Updates

Vendor patches and updates are crucial to mitigating this vulnerability. Stay informed about security advisories and apply recommended patches promptly.