CVE-2023-21013 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/24/2023
In forceStaDisconnection of hostapd.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-13Android ID: A-256818945
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21013 resides within the hostapd wireless access point daemon implementation, specifically in the forceStaDisconnection function located in hostapd.cpp. This represents a critical security flaw that manifests as an out-of-bounds read condition, which occurs when the system fails to validate array indices before accessing memory locations. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-129 as an insufficient bounds check, a common weakness that enables attackers to read memory beyond allocated boundaries. The flaw exists in Android 13 operating systems and is tracked by Android ID A-256818945, indicating its significance within the mobile platform security framework.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper input validation within the forceStaDisconnection function which handles wireless station disconnection operations. When processing disconnection requests, the code attempts to access array elements without verifying that the specified indices remain within valid memory bounds. This missing bounds check creates a predictable memory access pattern that can be exploited to read adjacent memory locations, potentially exposing sensitive information stored in nearby memory segments. The out-of-bounds read operation could reveal kernel memory contents, configuration data, or other confidential information that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
Exploitation of this vulnerability requires local system execution privileges, meaning an attacker must already have access to a system with the ability to execute code at the system level. This typically involves either physical access to the device or successful compromise through other attack vectors that elevate privileges to system level. The vulnerability does not require user interaction for exploitation, making it particularly concerning as it can be triggered automatically during normal wireless operations. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the leaked memory contents could contain sensitive cryptographic keys, authentication tokens, or system configuration parameters that could be leveraged for further attacks.
The operational implications of CVE-2023-21013 are significant for Android 13 devices that utilize wireless access point functionality. Mobile devices running this operating system could be vulnerable to information disclosure attacks that occur during routine wireless operations such as connecting to wireless networks or managing wireless station connections. This vulnerability particularly affects devices that function as wireless access points or hotspot providers, where the hostapd component is actively used. The information disclosure could potentially enable attackers to gain insights into system internals, network configurations, or cryptographic material that would otherwise remain protected. According to ATT&CK framework category T1005, this vulnerability could be used for data hijacking and information gathering activities, while the privilege escalation aspect aligns with T1068 which covers local privilege escalation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms within the hostapd.cpp source code, specifically in the forceStaDisconnection function. Android security patches should address this issue by adding validation checks that ensure array indices remain within valid memory boundaries before any memory access operations occur. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize applying the relevant security updates as soon as they become available. Additionally, monitoring for unusual wireless access point behavior or memory access patterns could help detect potential exploitation attempts. The fix should be implemented following secure coding practices that align with industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices, which emphasize the importance of input validation and bounds checking in preventing memory corruption vulnerabilities.