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CVE-2021-0395: High Vulnerability in Google Android

CVE-2021-0395 is a high-severity vulnerability in Google Android that allows for local privilege escalation due to memory corruption. Organizations are urged to patch immediately to mitigate risk.

HIGHCVSS 7.8 · Published March 10, 2021

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CVE-2021-0395 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Google Android, specifically in the StopServicesAndLogViolations function of reboot.cpp. This vulnerability allows for potential memory corruption due to a use after free scenario. As a result, attackers can escalate privileges locally without needing additional execution privileges. Importantly, user interaction is not required for exploitation, making this vulnerability particularly concerning.

The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. This level is critical for organizations to take note of, as it signifies a substantial risk. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate potential exploitation risks.

Given that the vulnerability affects Android 11, organizations utilizing this version should be especially vigilant. The potential for local privilege escalation can lead to serious security implications, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

As of now, there are no known public exploits for this vulnerability, but the risk remains high given its characteristics. Organizations must remain proactive in monitoring and applying relevant patches.

Vulnerability Details

The official description states that in StopServicesAndLogViolations of reboot.cpp, there is possible memory corruption due to a use after free. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-416.

The CVSS score is 7.8 based on the vector string CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Analysis

Root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of memory, which can lead to a use after free scenario. The attack vector is local, meaning potential attackers must have access to the device. The attack complexity is low, and only low privileges are required to exploit this vulnerability.

User interaction is not required, which increases the risk of exploitation. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high, signaling that if exploitation occurs, it could significantly compromise the affected system.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Organizations using Android 11 are at risk, particularly if they do not apply the necessary patches. The local privilege escalation could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or system functions.

Furthermore, the blast radius from such an exploit could be significant, impacting not only individual devices but also resulting in broader security concerns for organizations relying on Android.

Given the CVSS score and the nature of the vulnerability, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.

Exploitation Status

Signal

Status

Known Exploit

No

Public PoC

No

Actively Exploited

No

Ransomware Use

No

Affected Versions

The affected versions include Android 11. Organizations should ensure that all instances of this version are patched with the latest updates from Google.

Mitigation & Remediation

Organizations should prioritize applying patches provided by Google. The recommended version to upgrade to should be the latest Android release that addresses this vulnerability.

In the absence of immediate patching, organizations may consider implementing configuration hardening measures to limit exposure.

Monitoring for unusual behavior or signs of exploitation is crucial. Organizations should also review their vulnerability management programs to ensure such vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.

Further guidance can be found through our penetration testing services, which can help validate the effectiveness of remediation efforts.

Detection Guidance

Organizations should implement log monitoring to identify any indicators of exploitation attempts. Behavioral anomalies in user actions may also be a sign of potential exploitation.

Additionally, network signatures associated with the exploitation of similar vulnerabilities should be monitored.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

The long-term significance of CVE-2021-0395 lies in its potential to expose organizations to severe risks if not addressed. The pattern of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities highlights the need for stringent security practices in software development.

Security teams must take lessons from this vulnerability to enhance their defensive strategies, ensuring comprehensive reviews of code for memory management issues.

Organizations are encouraged to stay informed on trends in vulnerability management and enhance their security posture through continuous penetration testing and assessment.

For more insights on improving your security frameworks, consider exploring our penetration testing services that can help identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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