CVE-2023-20941 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record was published on April 19, 2023, by Google Android. The vulnerability involves a possible out of bounds write in acc_ctrlrequest_composite of f_accessory.c, which could lead to a physical escalation of privilege on Android devices. User interaction is required for exploitation.

Understanding CVE-2023-20941

This section will cover the key aspects of CVE-2023-20941, including what the vulnerability is and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-20941?

CVE-2023-20941 involves a missing bounds check in acc_ctrlrequest_composite of f_accessory.c, which could result in an out of bounds write. This vulnerability has the potential to allow an attacker to escalate privileges on an Android device without requiring additional execution privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20941

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it could potentially allow an attacker to gain higher privileges on the affected device, leading to a compromise of sensitive information or unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20941

In this section, we will delve into the technical details of CVE-2023-20941, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in acc_ctrlrequest_composite of f_accessory.c results in a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could be exploited by an attacker to escalate privileges on the Android device.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system by CVE-2023-20941 is Android, specifically the Android kernel. The vulnerability has been identified in certain versions of the Android kernel.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires user interaction. By manipulating the vulnerable component, an attacker could trigger the out of bound write and potentially escalate privileges on the device.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here, we will discuss the steps that can be taken to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-20941 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply security patches and updates provided by the vendor to address CVE-2023-20941. Users should also exercise caution while interacting with untrusted sources or content to prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong security practices, such as regular security audits, penetration testing, and user awareness training, can help enhance overall security posture and reduce the likelihood of successful attacks leveraging CVE-2023-20941.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security bulletins and advisories released by Google Android and apply patches promptly to ensure that known vulnerabilities, including CVE-2023-20941, are addressed in a timely manner. Regularly updating the operating system and related software can help protect against potential security threats.