CVE-2023-21361 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-21361 was assigned by google_android and was published on October 30, 2023. It falls under the state of PUBLISHED with an identifier CVE-2023-21361. The vulnerability affects Google's Android version 14, specifically in the Bluetooth functionality. The potential risk involves an elevation of privilege due to a use after free scenario, allowing for code execution without the need for additional execution privileges or user interaction.

Understanding CVE-2023-21361

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-21361, shedding light on what it entails and its implications.

What is CVE-2023-21361?

CVE-2023-21361 involves a vulnerability in the Bluetooth component of Google's Android operating system. The risk stems from a use after free situation, potentially leading to code execution and an escalation of privilege within the privileged Bluetooth process.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21361

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it could allow threat actors to exploit the Bluetooth functionality on Android devices to execute malicious code and elevate their privileges without requiring user interaction. This poses a serious security risk to affected devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21361

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21361, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-21361 arises from a use after free scenario in the Bluetooth implementation of Android 14. This flaw can be exploited to execute arbitrary code within the privileged Bluetooth process, potentially leading to an escalation of privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Google's Android version 14 is confirmed to be affected by CVE-2023-21361. Devices running this specific version of the operating system may be vulnerable to the Bluetooth-related privilege escalation issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploit leverages the use after free condition in the Bluetooth functionality of Android 14 to manipulate memory allocation and execution flow, ultimately allowing an attacker to execute malicious code and gain elevated privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section focuses on the steps that users and organizations can take to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-21361 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to install security updates provided by Google for Android 14 to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.
Caution is recommended when enabling Bluetooth functionality on devices to minimize exposure to potential attacks leveraging this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing security best practices, such as regularly updating the operating system and applications, can help minimize the risk of exposure to known vulnerabilities.
Enforcing secure configurations and access controls on devices can further enhance the overall security posture and reduce the impact of potential exploits.

Patching and Updates

Google may release patches or updates to address CVE-2023-21361 in Android 14. It is crucial for users to promptly apply these patches to safeguard their devices against potential exploitation and maintain a secure environment.