CVE-2021-25337 describes an improper access control vulnerability in the clipboard service of Samsung mobile devices running Android. This vulnerability allows untrusted applications to read or write certain local files, leading to potential data exposure or manipulation by unauthorized applications. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 4.4, indicating a medium severity level, which should not be overlooked by organizations using Samsung devices.
The vulnerability was published on March 4, 2021, and affects multiple versions of Samsung's Android, specifically prior to SMR Mar-2021 Release 1. The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on devices, which could be exploited by malicious applications. Organizations must prioritize patching to mitigate these risks.
Currently, there is a notable level of urgency for defenders as this vulnerability is included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. Organizations should implement the necessary updates as per vendor instructions to address the identified flaw. Failure to do so could lead to significant security breaches.
In summary, Samsung mobile devices are subject to a medium-severity access control vulnerability that requires swift remediation efforts. Organizations should review their device management policies and ensure that all relevant systems are updated to protect against potential exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2021-25337 states that improper access control in the clipboard service of Samsung mobile devices prior to SMR Mar-2021 Release 1 allows untrusted applications to read or write certain local files. This vulnerability is classified as CWE-269.
With a CVSS score of 4.4, the vulnerability is deemed of medium severity. The attack vector is local, with low complexity required for exploitation. No privileges are required, but user interaction is necessary, emphasizing the need for users to be cautious.
The potential impacts include low confidentiality and integrity, with no availability impact according to the CVSS metrics provided. Organizations should take these factors into account when assessing their risk exposure.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-25337 is attributed to improper access controls within the clipboard service. This allows untrusted applications to bypass restrictions that would normally prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. The attack vector is local, meaning that attackers must have physical access to the device or be able to run applications on it.
The attack complexity is low, thus making it feasible for attackers with minimal technical skills to exploit this vulnerability if they can entice a user to interact with a malicious application. User interaction is a requirement, signifying that the user must at some point engage with the application for the attack to succeed.
The impact on confidentiality is rated as low, indicating that while data may be exposed, the severity of the information at risk is not necessarily critical. Integrity impact is also low, suggesting that unauthorized modifications may occur but are unlikely to result in severe consequences.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The deployment of this vulnerability poses a risk to organizations that utilize Samsung mobile devices. The improper access control could allow attackers to read or write arbitrary files, leading to data leaks or further exploitation of the device's capabilities. The blast radius potential is significant, given the widespread use of Samsung devices in enterprise environments.
Urgency is elevated due to the CVSS score of 4.4, which indicates a medium severity level. However, the fact that the vulnerability is actively tracked in the KEV catalog adds a layer of urgency, suggesting that organizations prioritize remediation measures in their patch cycles.
Organizations should not only apply the necessary patches but also consider conducting security assessments to identify any other weaknesses that could be exploited in combination with CVE-2021-25337. This proactive approach is essential in maintaining a robust security posture.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of Samsung Android are affected: All versions prior to SMR Mar-2021 Release 1. Specific vulnerable criteria include multiple versions from 9.0 to 11.0, such as SMR-APR-2019 through SMR-FEB-2021.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply updates per vendor instructions to remediate this vulnerability. For more details on the necessary actions, refer to the penetration testing services to identify any other weaknesses. In cases where patches are not immediately available, organizations should implement configuration hardening, restrict access to sensitive files, and monitor system behavior closely.
Detection Guidance
Detection of exploitation attempts should focus on log indicators that show unauthorized access to clipboard services. Behavioral anomalies in applications that interact with clipboard data should be monitored, alongside reviewing any unusual file access patterns that could indicate an attempt to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2021-25337 lies in its demonstration of how improper access controls can lead to broader security challenges within mobile platforms. This vulnerability highlights the importance of rigorous security practices, especially in mobile environments where sensitive data is often processed.
Organizations should take this as a lesson to enhance their security frameworks and consider regular assessments to mitigate similar vulnerabilities. A structured approach to application security is crucial to reducing the risk of exploitation.
For further insights on mobile security, organizations are encouraged to explore the mobile app penetration testing guide and the importance of proactive measures in preventing vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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