CVE-2021-0490 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 06/11/2021
In memory management driver, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android SoCAndroid ID: A-183464868
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-0490 resides within the memory management driver component of Android operating systems, representing a critical security flaw that could enable local privilege escalation. This issue manifests as a missing bounds check during memory operations, creating a potential out of bounds write condition that undermines the system's memory safety mechanisms. The vulnerability affects Android SoC implementations and is tracked under Android ID A-183464868, indicating its significance within the mobile platform security framework. The flaw exists in the kernel-level memory management subsystem where proper input validation fails to occur before memory allocation operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate boundary validation within the memory management driver's code execution path. When the system processes memory allocation requests or performs memory operations, it fails to validate the bounds of memory access operations, allowing malicious code to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This missing validation creates a scenario where an attacker can manipulate memory locations beyond intended limits, potentially overwriting critical system data structures or executable code. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, meaning that successful exploitation would grant an attacker elevated privileges without requiring additional execution capabilities or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous for mobile environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-0490 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables local privilege escalation that could allow attackers to gain root-level access to Android devices. This capability represents a significant threat to mobile device security since the attacker does not require any special privileges or user interaction to exploit the vulnerability. The implications include potential data theft, device compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on the device. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting kernel-level vulnerabilities to achieve system compromise. The absence of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile security, as it could be exploited through seemingly benign applications or system processes.
Security mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-0490 must focus on patching the underlying memory management driver implementation to include proper bounds checking mechanisms. Android security updates should address the specific validation gaps in the memory allocation code, ensuring that all memory operations include appropriate boundary checks before data is written to memory locations. Organizations should implement immediate security patches from their device manufacturers and ensure timely deployment of Android security updates. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-129, which describes improper validation of array index or buffer bounds, and represents a classic example of memory safety issues that can be prevented through proper defensive programming practices. Device security teams should also consider implementing additional monitoring and detection capabilities to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting memory management subsystems.