CVE-2023-21096 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record highlights a critical vulnerability that could lead to remote code execution on Android devices without requiring any additional execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21096

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-21096, explaining what the vulnerability entails and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-21096?

The CVE-2023-21096 vulnerability is specifically found in OnWakelockReleased of attribution_processor.cc. It involves a use-after-free issue that, if exploited, can result in remote code execution on affected Android devices. Notably, user interaction is not necessary for an attacker to exploit this vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21096

The impact of CVE-2023-21096 is severe as it could allow threat actors to execute malicious code remotely on Android devices running certain versions of the Android operating system. This could potentially lead to a compromise of sensitive data, unauthorized access, and other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21096

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21096, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in OnWakelockReleased of attribution_processor.cc results from a use-after-free issue that can be exploited by malicious actors to achieve remote code execution on vulnerable Android devices.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product in this case is Android, with specific versions such as Android-12, Android-12L, and Android-13 being vulnerable to CVE-2023-21096. Users operating devices with these Android versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21096 involves leveraging the use-after-free issue in OnWakelockReleased of attribution_processor.cc to execute malicious code remotely without requiring additional execution privileges. This presents a significant threat to the security and integrity of affected Android devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

Safeguarding against CVE-2023-21096 requires immediate action and adherence to security best practices to mitigate the risks posed by this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and organizations are advised to apply security updates and patches provided by the Android platform to address CVE-2023-21096 promptly. Additionally, monitoring for any signs of exploitation is crucial to identifying and containing potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance overall security posture, it is recommended to implement robust security measures such as regular security assessments, threat intelligence monitoring, and employee cybersecurity training to prevent and detect potential vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Staying current with security updates and software patches is essential in mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-21096. Regularly updating Android devices to the latest software versions and security patches issued by the vendor can help protect against known vulnerabilities and strengthen device security.