CVE-2023-21133 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record was published by Google Android on August 14, 2023, highlighting a security vulnerability in Android versions 12, 12L, and 13. This vulnerability, identified as an elevation of privilege issue, could potentially allow an attacker to bypass factory reset protections, leading to a local escalation of privilege without the need for additional execution privileges or user interaction.

Understanding CVE-2023-21133

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-21133, shedding light on what the vulnerability entails and its potential impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-21133?

The vulnerability identified in this CVE, located in the onCreate function of ManagePermissionsActivity.java, poses a risk by allowing attackers to bypass factory reset protections due to a missing permission check. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker could escalate their privileges locally, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information on a factory reset device.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21133

The impact of CVE-2023-21133 is significant as it opens up the possibility of unauthorized access and privilege escalation on Android devices running affected versions. Such exploitation could lead to severe security breaches and compromise user data, emphasizing the critical nature of addressing this vulnerability promptly.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21133

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21133, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism involved.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in ManagePermissionsActivity.java allows for the bypassing of factory reset protections, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data on Android devices. This security flaw stems from a missing permission check, creating a loophole that can be exploited for local privilege escalation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Android versions 12, 12L, and 13 are confirmed to be affected by this vulnerability. Users operating devices on these versions are at risk of falling victim to the privilege escalation issue through the exploitation of the identified security loophole.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21133 does not require user interaction, making it a concerning threat for devices that have been factory reset and are physically accessible. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate their privileges locally without the need for additional execution privileges, posing a severe security risk.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of the identified vulnerability, it is crucial for users and administrators to take immediate action to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-21133. Implementing proactive security measures and applying necessary patches can help prevent potential exploitation and safeguard affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of Android devices running affected versions should remain vigilant and apply security updates promptly to address the vulnerability. It is advisable to restrict physical access to devices and employ additional security measures to mitigate the risk of unauthorized privilege escalation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Adopting robust security practices, such as regular software updates, security audits, and access control mechanisms, can bolster the overall security posture of devices and mitigate the impact of potential vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21133.

Patching and Updates

Google Android has likely released patches to address the CVE-2023-21133 vulnerability. Users are encouraged to install these patches as soon as they become available to prevent exploitation and enhance the security of their devices. Regularly updating software and firmware is essential for maintaining a secure environment and safeguarding against emerging threats.