CVE-2023-21201 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record details a vulnerability in the Android operating system that could potentially lead to a remote denial of service attack without requiring additional execution privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-21201

This section will delve into what CVE-2023-21201 is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21201?

CVE-2023-21201 specifically pertains to a flaw in the on_create_record_event function of btif_sdp_server.cc in Android devices. The vulnerability arises due to a missing null check, which could result in an out-of-bounds read. This vulnerability has the potential to be exploited remotely to launch a denial of service attack.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21201

The impact of CVE-2023-21201 is significant as it could lead to a remote denial of service attack against Android devices. Attackers may be able to disrupt the normal operation of affected devices without requiring any user interaction, posing a risk to device availability and performance.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21201

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the on_create_record_event function of btif_sdp_server.cc in Android devices allows for an out-of-bounds read due to a missing null check. This flaw could potentially be exploited by malicious actors to trigger a remote denial of service attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system identified in this CVE is Android, specifically version Android-13. Devices running Android-13 are vulnerable to exploitation unless appropriate mitigation measures are implemented.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-21201 requires the execution of specific actions that could trigger the out-of-bounds read vulnerability in btif_sdp_server.cc. Attackers could leverage this flaw to launch remote denial of service attacks against vulnerable Android devices.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps that users and organizations can take to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-21201 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

To address CVE-2023-21201, users are advised to apply security patches and updates provided by Android as soon as they become available. Timely installation of patches can help prevent attackers from exploiting the vulnerability for malicious purposes.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, maintaining robust security practices such as regular software updates, threat monitoring, and access control measures can enhance the overall security posture of Android devices. By staying vigilant and proactive, users can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to security vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21201.

Patching and Updates

Google regularly releases security updates and patches to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21201. Users should ensure that their Android devices are running the latest software versions to benefit from enhanced security features and fixed vulnerabilities.