CVE-2023-21095 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record, assigned by Google Android, highlights a vulnerability in Android that could potentially lead to a partial lockscreen bypass, resulting in a local privilege escalation without the need for additional execution privileges. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-21095, was published on June 15, 2023.

Understanding CVE-2023-21095

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-21095, shedding light on the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-21095?

The vulnerability resides in the "canStartSystemGesture" function of RecentsAnimationDeviceState.java, where a race condition exists that could be exploited to bypass the lockscreen partially. This could allow an attacker to escalate privileges locally without requiring any additional execution privileges. Notably, user interaction is not necessary for the exploit to take place. The affected product is Android, specifically versions Android-12L and Android-13.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21095

The impact of CVE-2023-21095 is significant as it opens up the possibility of a local privilege escalation, which can potentially lead to further exploitation of the compromised system. As such, it poses a threat to the integrity and security of affected Android devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21095

This section provides deeper insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in canStartSystemGesture function allows for a race condition leading to a partial lockscreen bypass on Android devices. This flaw enables an attacker to escalate privileges locally without requiring additional permissions.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Android, with versions Android-12L and Android-13 being vulnerable to this CVE-2023-21095. Users utilizing these specific versions are at risk of exploitation if appropriate measures are not taken.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21095 involves triggering the race condition in the canStartSystemGesture function to bypass the lockscreen partially, thereby gaining unauthorized access and escalating privileges locally.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-21095, users and administrators are advised to take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should ensure that their Android devices are updated to the latest version available.
Regularly monitor official security bulletins and patches released by Google for necessary updates.
Exercise caution while interacting with untrusted sources or unknown applications to mitigate potential risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Employ best security practices, such as using strong and unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regular device maintenance.
Stay informed about emerging security vulnerabilities and threats to proactively safeguard your devices.

Patching and Updates

Given that this vulnerability has been acknowledged and addressed by Google, users are strongly advised to apply the latest security patches and updates provided by the vendor to ensure their Android devices are protected against CVE-2023-21095 and other potential security risks.