CVE-2023-21346 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-21346, including its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-21346

CVE-2023-21346 is a vulnerability identified in the Device Idle Controller of the Google Android operating system. The vulnerability allows malicious actors to determine whether an app is installed on a device without the necessary query permissions, leading to potential local information disclosure.

What is CVE-2023-21346?

The CVE-2023-21346 vulnerability exists in the Device Idle Controller of the Android operating system. It enables unauthorized access to information about installed apps on a device without requiring user interaction. This information disclosure can occur through side-channel mechanisms, posing a risk to user privacy and security.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21346

The impact of CVE-2023-21346 is significant as it can lead to local information disclosure without the need for additional execution privileges. The vulnerability may expose sensitive data about installed applications on the device, potentially compromising user privacy and security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21346

The technical details of CVE-2023-21346 highlight the vulnerability's exploitation mechanism, affected systems, and versions.

Vulnerability Description

In the Device Idle Controller of Google Android, the vulnerability allows threat actors to determine the presence of installed apps without the necessary permissions. This information disclosure occurs through a side-channel mechanism, providing unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google Android version 14 is confirmed to be affected by CVE-2023-21346. Users utilizing this particular version of the Android operating system may be vulnerable to unauthorized information disclosure regarding installed applications.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21346 does not require user interaction. By leveraging the vulnerability in the Device Idle Controller, malicious entities can extract information about installed apps on the device without the appropriate permissions, potentially leading to data leakage.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect against the CVE-2023-21346 vulnerability, users and organizations are advised to implement immediate steps and adhere to long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest version of Google Android to ensure patches for CVE-2023-21346 are applied.
Monitor app permissions and revoke unnecessary access to mitigate the risk of information disclosure.
Regularly review security bulletins and advisories from Google to stay informed about potential security threats.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict permission controls within apps to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential security risks proactively.
Educate users about the importance of app permissions and privacy settings to enhance security awareness.

Patching and Updates

Google may release security patches and updates to address CVE-2023-21346. It is crucial for users to apply these patches promptly to mitigate the risk of information disclosure and safeguard their devices against potential exploitation.