CVE-2021-1043 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/15/2021
In TBD of TBD, there is a possible downgrade attack due to under utilized anti-rollback protections. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-194697257References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-1043 resides within the Android kernel ecosystem and represents a significant security weakness related to rollback protection mechanisms. This flaw manifests as a potential downgrade attack vector that exploits insufficient implementation of anti-rollback controls. The vulnerability specifically affects the Android kernel components where cryptographic protections should prevent system version downgrades but fail to provide adequate safeguards. The security implications extend beyond simple privilege escalation as this weakness enables local information disclosure without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction for successful exploitation. The absence of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it can be leveraged automatically by malicious actors without need for social engineering or user engagement.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate implementation of rollback protection mechanisms within the kernel's security framework, creating a window where an attacker can potentially force a system to operate in a less secure state. This represents a deviation from standard security practices where rollback protection should be robust and comprehensive. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weakness in security protocols, specifically focusing on insufficient anti-rollback protections. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it operates at the kernel level where system integrity is paramount, and the exploitation requires no additional privileges beyond what is normally available to local users. The underlying mechanism likely involves manipulation of system version tracking or cryptographic validation processes that should prevent such downgrade scenarios.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends to local information disclosure capabilities that could expose sensitive system data, kernel memory structures, or configuration information. Attackers leveraging this weakness can potentially access confidential information that should remain protected within the kernel environment. The lack of privilege escalation requirements means that even unprivileged local users can exploit this vulnerability, creating a significant risk for system integrity. This vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of Android systems where kernel-level protections should prevent such information leakage scenarios. The implications include potential exposure of system configuration details, cryptographic key material, or other sensitive operational data that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-1043 should focus on strengthening rollback protection mechanisms within the Android kernel implementation. System administrators should ensure that all devices are updated to patched kernel versions that address the insufficient anti-rollback protections. The recommended approach involves implementing robust cryptographic validation procedures that prevent unauthorized system downgrades and maintain version integrity. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their Android environments to identify systems vulnerable to this attack vector. Patch management protocols should be prioritized to ensure timely deployment of kernel updates that address the cryptographic weakness. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous system behavior that might indicate attempted rollback attacks, as this vulnerability operates without user interaction requirements. The implementation of additional security controls such as kernel module integrity checking and enhanced version validation procedures will help mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.