CVE-2023-21039 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/24/2023
In dumpstateBoard of Dumpstate.cpp, there is a possible out of bounds read due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-263783650References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21039 resides within the dumpstateBoard function of Dumpstate.cpp in Android kernel implementations, representing a critical out-of-bounds read flaw that can potentially expose sensitive system information. This issue manifests when the system performs bounds checking on data structures, specifically in how it validates array or buffer access during the dumpstate process. The flaw allows an attacker with system-level privileges to read memory locations beyond the intended boundaries, potentially accessing confidential data that should remain protected. The vulnerability operates at the kernel level, where the dumpstate functionality is responsible for collecting system information for debugging purposes, making it particularly dangerous as it can expose sensitive operational data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from an incorrect bounds check mechanism that fails to properly validate the size of data being accessed or processed. When dumpstateBoard processes system state information, it iterates through arrays or buffers without sufficient validation of indices or lengths, leading to memory access violations that can result in information disclosure. This type of flaw typically occurs when developers assume certain data sizes or use incorrect mathematical operations in their boundary calculations. The vulnerability is classified as a memory safety issue that aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and can be categorized under the broader category of buffer over-read conditions in the ATT&CK framework as a technique for information gathering.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-21039 is significant for Android devices running affected kernel versions, as it enables local information disclosure when exploited with system execution privileges. While the vulnerability requires system-level access for exploitation, it represents a serious concern for device security since it can expose sensitive system information that may include device identifiers, memory contents, or other confidential operational data. The information disclosure could potentially aid attackers in conducting further attacks, such as privilege escalation or targeted exploitation of other system components. The fact that this vulnerability exists within the dumpstate functionality means that any process or service that triggers this code path could be leveraged to extract confidential information from the device's memory space.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-21039 should focus on implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms within the dumpstateBoard function of Dumpstate.cpp, ensuring that all array accesses are validated against proper buffer boundaries. Android security teams should prioritize updating kernel implementations to include robust input validation and boundary checking for all data structures accessed by the dumpstate functionality. The fix should involve correcting the bounds check logic to properly validate array indices before any memory access operations occur, preventing out-of-bounds reads from occurring. Additionally, implementing comprehensive testing procedures that include fuzzing and boundary condition testing for kernel-level code can help identify similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Organizations should also consider monitoring for any unauthorized system-level access attempts and implementing additional security controls to limit the attack surface where such vulnerabilities could be leveraged.