CVE-2021-0344 in Android
Summary
by MITRE
In mtkpower, there is a possible memory corruption due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Product: Android; Versions: Android-10, Android-11; Patch ID: ALPS05437558.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-0344 resides within the mtkpower component of MediaTek-based Android devices, representing a critical memory corruption flaw that stems from an inadequate bounds checking mechanism. This issue affects Android versions 10 and 11, specifically impacting devices manufactured with MediaTek chipsets where the mtkpower service handles power management functions. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-129 as an insufficient bounds check, which directly enables memory corruption scenarios that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical flaw manifests when the mtkpower service processes power-related data structures without proper validation of array indices or buffer boundaries. This missing bounds check creates a condition where arbitrary memory locations can be accessed and modified, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability requires system-level execution privileges for exploitation, meaning that an attacker must already possess some level of system access to leverage this flaw effectively. However, the absence of user interaction requirements makes this particularly concerning as it can be exploited automatically without requiring physical access or user consent.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a significant risk for local privilege escalation attacks, where an attacker with limited system privileges could potentially elevate their access level to full system administrator rights. The impact extends beyond simple memory corruption as it can enable attackers to modify critical system components, install malicious software, or gain persistent access to the device. Given that MediaTek chipsets are widely used across various Android device manufacturers, the potential attack surface is extensive, affecting numerous smartphone and tablet models. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to complete device compromise, data theft, or the installation of persistent backdoors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-0344 should prioritize the immediate application of the vendor-provided patch identified as ALPS05437558, which addresses the missing bounds check in the mtkpower component. Organizations and users should implement comprehensive device management policies that ensure timely patch deployment across all affected devices. Additional protective measures include monitoring for suspicious system behavior, implementing network-based intrusion detection systems, and maintaining regular security audits of mobile device environments. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which involves exploiting local privileges, and represents a clear example of how hardware-level components can introduce security weaknesses that affect entire operating system ecosystems. Device manufacturers should also consider implementing additional runtime protections and memory safety mechanisms to prevent similar issues in future implementations.