CVE-2021-39658 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides details about CVE-2021-39658, focusing on the ismsEx service vulnerability on Android SoC.

Understanding CVE-2021-39658

CVE-2021-39658 involves an elevation of privilege vulnerability in the ismsEx service on Android.

What is CVE-2021-39658?

The ismsEx service, a vendor service in Unisoc equipment, is an extension of the SMS system service. It lacks caller permission checks, leading to permission leaks. This allows third-party apps to manipulate system properties.

The Impact of CVE-2021-39658

The vulnerability can be exploited for elevation of privilege, potentially allowing malicious apps to perform unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-39658

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The ismsEx service on Android SoC lacks proper permission validation, enabling unauthorized access to system properties.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Android
Versions: Android SoC

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this flaw by utilizing the ismsEx service to manipulate system properties without appropriate permissions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore the necessary steps to mitigate and prevent the CVE-2021-39658 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Regularly update the Android system to patch security vulnerabilities.
Avoid downloading apps from unofficial sources to minimize risks.
Monitor app permissions to restrict access to sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security audits to identify and address potential security gaps.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the official Android releases to address the ismsEx service vulnerability.