CVE-2023-21241 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-21241 was published on July 12, 2023, by Google Android. It poses a risk of local escalation of privilege in Android devices without the need for additional execution privileges. The vulnerability lies in the rw_i93_send_to_upper function of rw_i93.cc, where an integer overflow could result in an out-of-bounds write scenario.

Understanding CVE-2023-21241

This section will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-21241, including its impact, technical details, affected systems and versions, as well as mitigation and prevention strategies.

What is CVE-2023-21241?

The CVE-2023-21241 vulnerability stems from an integer overflow issue in the rw_i93_send_to_upper function of rw_i93.cc. This flaw could potentially lead to a local escalation of privilege on affected Android devices. Notably, this exploit can be carried out without the need for any user interaction, making it particularly dangerous.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21241

The impact of CVE-2023-21241 is significant as it opens up the possibility of threat actors gaining escalated privileges on affected Android devices. This could allow malicious actors to perform unauthorized actions, jeopardizing the security and integrity of the device and its data.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21241

To effectively address CVE-2023-21241, understanding the technical aspects of the vulnerability is crucial. This includes the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the rw_i93_send_to_upper function of rw_i93.cc is caused by an integer overflow, leading to an out-of-bounds write scenario. This flaw can be exploited by threat actors to achieve a local escalation of privilege without requiring additional execution privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE-2023-21241 vulnerability impacts Android devices running versions 11, 12, 12L, and 13. These systems are susceptible to the exploit, potentially putting user data and device security at risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21241 does not necessitate user interaction, making it a concerning vulnerability. Threat actors could leverage this flaw to gain escalated privileges on affected Android devices, highlighting the critical nature of this security concern.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-21241 requires immediate action to mitigate the risks posed by this privilege escalation vulnerability. Implementing effective security measures and staying vigilant against potential exploits is essential in safeguarding Android devices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and system administrators are advised to apply security updates provided by Google promptly. These updates often include patches to address vulnerabilities such as CVE-2023-21241, safeguarding devices from potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, practicing good security habits such as avoiding suspicious links, utilizing strong passwords, and staying informed about security updates is crucial in maintaining device security and resilience against emerging threats.

Patching and Updates

Regularly checking for and applying system updates and security patches is essential in mitigating the risk posed by vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-21241. By ensuring devices are up to date with the latest security fixes, users can enhance the security posture of their Android devices and protect against potential exploits.