CVE-2022-1230 in Galaxy S21
Summary
by MITRE • 03/28/2023
This vulnerability allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Samsung Galaxy S21 prior to 4.5.40.5 phones. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the handling of redirections. An attacker can force a redirection to a site that serves malicious content. An attacker can leverage this in conjunction with other vulnerabilities to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. Was ZDI-CAN-15918.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2026
This vulnerability affects Samsung Galaxy S21 devices running firmware versions prior to 4.5.40.5, representing a critical local privilege escalation flaw that could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on targeted systems. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of redirection mechanisms within the device's operating system, specifically within the web browser or application framework components that process URL redirections. The flaw requires an initial foothold through low-privileged code execution, meaning attackers must first gain some level of access to the system before exploiting this particular vulnerability. This prerequisite aligns with common attack patterns where initial compromise occurs through phishing, malicious downloads, or other social engineering vectors that allow execution of malicious code with limited privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the device's failure to properly validate or sanitize redirection targets when processing web requests or application navigation. When a malicious redirection is initiated, the system does not adequately verify the destination URL or implement proper security checks that would prevent access to potentially harmful content. This weakness creates an attack surface where an attacker can craft malicious redirections that, when followed by the user or processed by system components, could lead to code execution. The vulnerability's exploitation pathway typically involves chaining this redirection flaw with other existing vulnerabilities to achieve privilege escalation, ultimately allowing code execution in the context of the current user account. This approach follows established attack methodologies where single vulnerabilities are often insufficient for complete compromise and require additional exploitation techniques to reach full system control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it represents a significant escalation path that could enable attackers to gain persistent access to affected devices. Mobile devices running vulnerable firmware versions become susceptible to various attack vectors including data exfiltration, malware installation, and further lateral movement within corporate networks if the devices are connected to enterprise systems. The vulnerability's local nature means that physical access or prior compromise is required for exploitation, but once exploited, the attacker gains substantial control over the device's functionality and data. This represents a particular concern for enterprise environments where mobile devices may contain sensitive corporate data and serve as entry points to broader network infrastructures.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates to version 4.5.40.5 or later, which would address the underlying redirection handling mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive mobile device management policies that ensure timely deployment of security patches across all enterprise devices. Network administrators should consider implementing web filtering solutions that can detect and block suspicious redirection patterns, particularly those that attempt to redirect to known malicious domains. Additionally, user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious links and downloads, as the initial compromise often occurs through social engineering rather than direct exploitation of this vulnerability. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual redirection patterns in network traffic and application behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure redirection handling as outlined in CWE-601 and aligns with attack techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation and execution tactics, specifically targeting mobile device operating systems and their web browsing components.