CVE-2023-20976 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record pertains to a security vulnerability identified within the Android operating system, specifically affecting versions up to Android-13. The vulnerability allows for a potential local escalation of privilege through a misleading user interface that could prompt users to unknowingly select a default autofill application.

Understanding CVE-2023-20976

This section delves deeper into the nature of CVE-2023-20976 and its potential impact, technical details, as well as mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-20976?

The CVE-2023-20976 vulnerability is centered around the getConfirmationMessage function of DefaultAutofillPicker.java in the Android operating system. It exposes a flaw in input validation, providing an avenue for threat actors to deceive users into selecting a default autofill application. This manipulation could result in a local escalation of privilege without requiring additional execution privileges, thereby posing a security risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-20976

The impact of CVE-2023-20976 lies in its capability to mislead users into making unintended choices that can lead to an elevation of privilege. By exploiting this vulnerability, malicious actors could potentially gain escalated access privileges on the affected Android device, compromising its security integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-20976

Further understanding of CVE-2023-20976 involves exploring the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in getConfirmationMessage of DefaultAutofillPicker.java within Android enables unauthorized privilege escalation through misleading user interactions related to default autofill application selection. This loophole may be exploited by threat actors seeking to gain unauthorized privileges on affected systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Android versions up to Android-13. Devices running these versions are susceptible to the misleading default autofill application selection issue that can be exploited for local escalation of privilege.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-20976 involves manipulating the flawed input validation within the getConfirmationMessage function of DefaultAutofillPicker.java. By misleading users into selecting a compromised default autofill application, threat actors can potentially elevate their privilege levels without the need for additional execution privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

For effective security management, it is crucial to implement immediate steps to address the CVE-2023-20976 vulnerability, adopt long-term security practices, and prioritize patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to exercise caution while interacting with autofill prompts on Android devices.
Organizations and individuals should stay vigilant for suspicious activities related to default autofill application selections.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security audits and assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities within the Android operating system.
Educate users about safe interaction practices and the importance of verifying autofill application prompts before making selections.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates released by Android to patch vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-20976.
Promptly apply patches and updates to ensure that devices are protected against potential security risks associated with the identified vulnerability.