CVE-2023-21163 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record pertains to a vulnerability found in Google's Android operating system that could potentially result in an elevation of privilege. The vulnerability was disclosed on December 4, 2023, by Google's Android security team.

Understanding CVE-2023-21163

This section will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-21163, outlining what the vulnerability entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2023-21163?

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-21163, exists in the PMR_ReadBytes function within pmr.c in the Android operating system. It has the potential to allow for arbitrary code execution as a result of a use-after-free issue. Exploiting this vulnerability could lead to a local escalation of privilege within the kernel without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21163

The impact of CVE-2023-21163 could be significant, as it opens up the possibility for threat actors to execute arbitrary code, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system resources and escalating their privileges within the affected Android devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21163

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21163, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in PMR_ReadBytes of pmr.c introduces a use-after-free issue that could be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to local privilege escalation within the kernel of the Android operating system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts devices running Android SoC, presenting a risk to systems utilizing this specific version of the Android operating system.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-21163 involves leveraging the use-after-free issue in the PMR_ReadBytes function to execute arbitrary code, enabling threat actors to elevate their privileges within the kernel without requiring user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section will outline the necessary steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-21163, including immediate actions to take and long-term security practices to implement.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and administrators are advised to apply security patches and updates provided by Google to address the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation. Additionally, practicing caution while interacting with untrusted sources and websites can help reduce the risk of exposure to malicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, such as regularly updating software, employing endpoint protection solutions, and conducting security audits, can help enhance the overall security posture of systems and mitigate the impact of potential vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21163.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security bulletins and patches released by Google for the Android operating system is crucial for promptly addressing vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21163. Applying recommended patches and updates in a timely manner can help safeguard devices against potential security threats.