CVE-2021-41861 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The Telegram application 7.5.0 through 7.8.0 for Android has a vulnerability related to image self-destruction.

Understanding CVE-2021-41861

This CVE involves a flaw in the Telegram app for Android and the improper implementation of image self-destruction.

What is CVE-2021-41861?

The Telegram app version 7.5.0 through 7.8.0 on Android fails to correctly execute the image self-destruction feature, leading to a misleading indication that images are deleted when they remain in the directory.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41861

The misleading UI indication of image deletion after self-destruct feature usage poses a privacy risk as the images remain accessible to both sender and recipient, despite the false deletion confirmation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41861

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The issue lies in the incorrect implementation of image self-destruction within the Telegram app for Android versions 7.5.0 to 7.8.0.

Affected Systems and Versions

Telegram application version 7.5.0 through 7.8.0 on Android.

Exploitation Mechanism

Users mistakenly believe that images are deleted after utilizing the self-destruct feature, but the images persist in the /Storage/Emulated/0/Telegram/Telegram Image/ directory.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to address and prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Avoid relying solely on the self-destruct feature for image deletion.
Manually verify the deletion of sensitive images in the device's directory.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update the Telegram app to patched versions.
Consider alternative secure messaging apps for sensitive communications.

Patching and Updates

Update the Telegram app to the latest version to ensure that the image self-destruct feature functions correctly.