CVE-2023-21021 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-21021, including its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-21021

CVE-2023-21021 refers to a security vulnerability found in Android-13, which could allow a guest user to change admin user network settings without the necessary permission check. This flaw could potentially lead to local escalation of privilege without requiring any additional execution privileges.

What is CVE-2023-21021?

The vulnerability lies in the

isTargetSdkLessThanQOrPrivileged

function of WifiServiceImpl.java, allowing unauthorized users to modify critical network settings.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21021

If exploited, this vulnerability could enable unauthorized users to gain elevated privileges within the Android system, posing a significant security risk to affected devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21021

The following technical aspects highlight the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in WifiServiceImpl.java allows guest users to manipulate admin user network settings, potentially leading to unauthorized access and privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

The specific impacted system is Android-13, where this vulnerability exists and can be exploited by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the missing permission check in the

isTargetSdkLessThanQOrPrivileged

function, unauthorized users can alter admin user network settings, paving the way for privilege escalation.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-21021 and safeguard systems from potential attacks, users and organizations should implement the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update: Ensure the affected systems are updated with the latest security patches provided by Google for Android-13.
Access Control: Implement proper access control measures to restrict unauthorized users from changing critical network settings.
Monitoring: Regularly monitor network activities and system logs for any suspicious behavior indicating a potential exploitation attempt.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Audits: Conduct routine security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
User Permissions: Review and manage user permissions effectively to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive system functions.
Security Training: Provide comprehensive security training to users and administrators to increase awareness of potential security risks.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial for users to stay informed about security updates and promptly apply patches released by Google for Android-13 to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-21021. Regularly updating systems is a key defense against known vulnerabilities and emerging threats.