CVE-2023-21376 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE record was published on October 30, 2023, by Google Android. The vulnerability involves an elevation of privilege issue in the Telephony component of Android version 14, potentially allowing unauthorized retrieval of the ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) without requiring additional execution privileges. Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in local information disclosure without the need for user interaction.

Understanding CVE-2023-21376

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-21376, discussing what the vulnerability entails and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-21376?

CVE-2023-21376 is a security vulnerability identified in the Telephony component of Android version 14. It involves a logic error in the code that could enable an attacker to retrieve the ICCID without the need for additional execution privileges. This flaw could lead to local information disclosure without requiring user interaction.

The Impact of CVE-2023-21376

The impact of CVE-2023-21376 lies in the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive information, specifically the ICCID, which could be leveraged for malicious purposes. The vulnerability could compromise user privacy and security, leading to potential exploitation and data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-21376

In this section, the technical aspects of CVE-2023-21376 will be explored, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Telephony allows for the unauthorized retrieval of the ICCID due to a logic error in the code. This flaw could be exploited to disclose local information without requiring additional privileges or user interaction, posing a risk to user data security.

Affected Systems and Versions

The impacted system in this CVE is Google's Android operating system, specifically version 14. Users utilizing this version may be susceptible to the elevation of privilege vulnerability in the Telephony component.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2023-21376 involves leveraging the logic error in the Telephony code to retrieve the ICCID without the need for additional execution privileges. This could be achieved without user interaction, potentially leading to the disclosure of sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-21376 and enhance security measures, immediate steps can be taken along with long-term security practices and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users affected by CVE-2023-21376 should consider implementing temporary workarounds or mitigations provided by the vendor. It is essential to monitor for any unusual activities or unauthorized access that may indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, users should adhere to secure practices such as regularly updating their devices, employing strong authentication methods, and exercising caution when accessing sensitive information. Implementing security best practices can help mitigate risks associated with potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Vendor-supplied patches and updates should be applied promptly to address CVE-2023-21376 and other security vulnerabilities. Keeping systems up to date with the latest security releases is crucial in safeguarding against potential exploits and maintaining the integrity of the system.