CVE-2023-21072 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE was published on March 24, 2023, by Google Android. It involves a vulnerability in the Android kernel that could potentially lead to a local escalation of privilege, requiring System execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21072

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-21072, covering what the vulnerability is, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21072?

The CVE-2023-21072 vulnerability resides in the

rtt_unpack_xtlv_cbfn

function of

dhd_rtt.c

and is characterized by a possible out of bounds write resulting from a buffer overflow. Exploiting this flaw could allow an attacker to escalate privileges locally without the need for user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21072

The impact of CVE-2023-21072 can be severe as it opens up the possibility of a local escalation of privilege, potentially granting unauthorized access to sensitive system functions and data.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21072

Now, let's explore the technical details associated with CVE-2023-21072, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and how the exploit mechanism works.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the

rtt_unpack_xtlv_cbfn

function of

dhd_rtt.c

triggers a buffer overflow, leading to an out of bounds write. This flaw is what enables the potential escalation of privilege.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impacted system in this case is Android, specifically the Android kernel. The vulnerability affects the Android kernel, making it susceptible to the privilege escalation exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21072 revolves around leveraging the buffer overflow in the

rtt_unpack_xtlv_cbfn

function of

dhd_rtt.c

within the Android kernel. By carefully crafting and executing malicious code, an attacker could take advantage of this vulnerability to escalate privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2023-21072, it is crucial for users and administrators to implement effective mitigation strategies and preventive measures to safeguard their systems and data.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate actions should include applying security patches or updates provided by the vendor to address the vulnerability promptly. It is essential to stay informed about security bulletins and advisories related to the affected software.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security practices such as regular security assessments, access controls, and threat monitoring can help in identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating and patching the affected systems, especially the Android kernel, is vital to ensure that known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21072 are remediated effectively. Keeping software up to date can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation.