CVE-2023-21184 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record highlights a security vulnerability in the Android operating system that could potentially allow for a permission bypass leading to a local privilege escalation without requiring additional execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21184

This section will provide an overview of what CVE-2023-21184 entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2023-21184?

CVE-2023-21184 is identified as a logic error present in the code of getCurrentPrivilegedPackagesForAllUsers within CarrierPrivilegesTracker.java in the Android operating system. This vulnerability has the potential to bypass permissions and could result in a local escalation of privilege without the need for user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21184

The impact of CVE-2023-21184 is significant as it could be exploited by malicious actors to elevate their privilege level on the affected system, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or performing malicious actions without the user's consent.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21184

Understanding the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21184 is crucial in implementing effective prevention and mitigation strategies.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a logic error in the getCurrentPrivilegedPackagesForAllUsers code in CarrierPrivilegesTracker.java, allowing for a potential permission bypass that facilitates the escalation of local privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the Android operating system version Android-13, putting devices running this specific version at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21184 involves leveraging the logic error in the code to bypass permissions, enabling threat actors to escalate their privileges locally without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from the risks associated with CVE-2023-21184, proactive measures need to be taken to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implementing immediate security measures such as restricting access to critical system functions and monitoring for any suspicious activities can help mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-21184.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing robust security protocols, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about security updates and patches are essential long-term practices to enhance the overall security posture of the system.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to apply security patches and updates provided by the Android platform to address the vulnerability and eliminate the potential for exploitation by threat actors. Regularly updating the system ensures that known vulnerabilities are mitigated, reducing the risk of security breaches.