CVE-2023-21041 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record was published on March 24, 2023, by google_android. It involves a vulnerability in the Android kernel that could potentially lead to local escalation of privilege without requiring any additional execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21041

This section will delve deeper into what CVE-2023-21041 entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21041?

CVE-2023-21041 specifically pertains to an issue in the append_to_params of param_util.c, where an incorrect bounds check could result in an out-of-bounds write vulnerability. This flaw could be exploited to escalate privileges locally on the affected system.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21041

The impact of this vulnerability lies in its potential for local privilege escalation without the need for additional execution privileges. This could allow threat actors to gain elevated access to the system, posing a significant risk to data security and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21041

In this section, we will explore the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism associated with CVE-2023-21041.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the append_to_params of param_util.c arises from an incorrect bounds check, leading to an out-of-bounds write scenario. This flaw presents an opportunity for malicious actors to exploit the system and gain unauthorized privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system identified in this CVE is Android, specifically the Android kernel. The versions impacted by this vulnerability include the Android kernel.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21041 revolves around leveraging the incorrect bounds check in the append_to_params of param_util.c to perform an out-of-bounds write operation. This can be manipulated by threat actors to escalate privileges locally.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-21041 and reduce the associated risks, immediate steps can be taken along with establishing long-term security practices and ensuring timely patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate actions to mitigate the impact of CVE-2023-21041 include monitoring system activity, restricting access privileges, and implementing security controls to limit exposure to potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing proactive security measures such as regular security assessments, threat intelligence integration, and user awareness training can help in fortifying the overall security posture against similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to stay informed about security advisories related to the Android kernel and promptly apply patches released by the vendor to address CVE-2023-21041. Regularly updating systems with the latest security fixes is essential in safeguarding against known vulnerabilities.