CVE-2021-25351 in Account
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2021
Improper Access Control in EmailValidationView in Samsung Account prior to version 10.7.0.7 and 12.1.1.3 allows physically proximate attackers to log out user account on device without user password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-25351 represents a critical improper access control flaw within Samsung Account's EmailValidationView component. This security weakness affects Samsung Account applications running prior to versions 10.7.0.7 and 12.1.1.3, creating a significant risk for users who may be physically proximate to affected devices. The flaw operates by allowing attackers to execute account logout operations without possessing the legitimate user password, effectively undermining the authentication mechanisms that should protect user sessions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user credentials and session management within the EmailValidationView module. Attackers exploiting this weakness can manipulate the application's logout functionality through direct interaction with the device, bypassing normal authentication procedures that typically require password verification. This improper access control issue falls under the CWE-284 category of "Improper Access Control" and represents a failure in authorization mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized session termination. The vulnerability specifically targets the account validation and session management components, where the application fails to properly verify the identity of users attempting to perform administrative actions such as account logout.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates substantial risk for Samsung device users who may be in physical proximity to devices running vulnerable versions of the Samsung Account application. The attack vector requires only physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous in environments where devices may be left unattended or where social engineering attacks could be employed. An attacker with proximity access could terminate active user sessions, potentially forcing users to re-authenticate and disrupting their normal workflow while also creating opportunities for further exploitation. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and violates the security model that should protect user sessions from unauthorized interference. The impact extends beyond simple session termination as it can serve as a precursor to more sophisticated attacks, potentially enabling session hijacking or account takeover attempts.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-25351 primarily focus on updating Samsung Account applications to versions 10.7.0.7 or 12.1.1.3, which contain the necessary patches to address the improper access control flaw. Organizations should implement immediate remediation procedures to ensure all affected Samsung devices receive the security updates. Additionally, users should be educated about the importance of keeping their applications updated and should be aware of the risks associated with leaving devices unattended in public or shared spaces. Network administrators should monitor for vulnerable devices within their environments and establish policies requiring regular security updates for all mobile applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper session management and authentication controls, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1531 for Account Access Removal and highlighting the need for robust access control implementations in mobile applications. Security teams should also consider implementing device management policies that automatically enforce security updates and monitor for unauthorized access attempts to user accounts.