CVE-2023-21115 : What You Need to Know

This CVE record details a vulnerability in the Android operating system that could allow for an escalation of privilege on paired devices without requiring additional execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21115

This section will explore the specifics of CVE-2023-21115, including its description, impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21115?

CVE-2023-21115, identified in the Android operating system, specifically in the btm_sec_encrypt_change of btm_sec.cc, presents a potential risk of downgrading the link key type due to improperly used cryptography. This flaw could result in an escalation of privilege on paired devices, enabling unauthorized access without the need for user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21115

The impact of this vulnerability lies in the ability for threat actors to exploit the flaw and gain elevated privileges on affected Android devices. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information or malicious activities being carried out on the compromised device.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21115

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21115, including a detailed vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a flaw in the handling of link key types within the Android operating system's btm_sec_encrypt_change function. Improperly implemented cryptography allows for the potential downgrade of the link key type, creating a security risk for paired devices.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impacted product is Android, specifically versions Android-11, Android-12, and Android-12L. Devices running on these versions are vulnerable to the CVE-2023-21115 exploit and should take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21115 involves leveraging the vulnerability in btm_sec_encrypt_change to manipulate the link key type, thereby achieving an escalation of privilege on paired devices. Threat actors can potentially exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access and perform malicious activities.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this final section, we will discuss essential steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-21115, including immediate actions to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of applying patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

To address CVE-2023-21115, users and administrators should prioritize implementing security measures such as access control policies, network segmentation, and monitoring for unusual activity. Additionally, updating devices to the latest recommended software version is crucial to bolstering security defenses.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, maintaining a proactive approach to cybersecurity is vital. This includes regular security assessments, employee training on best practices, and staying informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Building a culture of security within organizations can help prevent future exploits like CVE-2023-21115.

Patching and Updates

Vendor-provided patches and updates play a critical role in addressing vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21115. It is imperative to stay current with software updates and security advisories to ensure that devices are protected against known threats. Regularly checking for and applying patches is an essential part of maintaining a secure and resilient digital environment.