CVE-2023-21098 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 04/19/2023
In multiple functions of AccountManagerService.java, there is a possible loading of arbitrary code into the System Settings app due to a confused deputy. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android-11 Android-12 Android-12L Android-13Android ID: A-260567867
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21098 represents a critical security flaw within Android's AccountManagerService component that enables unauthorized code execution through a confused deputy attack pattern. This vulnerability specifically affects Android versions 11 through 13, including Android 12L, creating a widespread impact across multiple platform versions. The issue stems from improper validation mechanisms within AccountManagerService.java where multiple functions fail to properly authenticate the source of incoming requests, allowing malicious actors to exploit the system's trust model.
The technical flaw manifests through a confused deputy scenario where legitimate system components are tricked into executing unauthorized code by manipulating the request flow between system services. This particular vulnerability resides in the AccountManagerService implementation where the system fails to verify the authenticity of code loading requests, creating an attack vector that bypasses normal security boundaries. The underlying mechanism allows for arbitrary code loading into the System Settings application, which operates with elevated privileges and system-level access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe local privilege escalation risk that requires no additional execution privileges or user interaction for exploitation. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it leverages existing system trust relationships to execute malicious code without requiring any special permissions or user engagement. The implications extend beyond simple code execution as the compromised System Settings app can potentially access sensitive system resources, modify critical configurations, and establish persistent access to the affected device.
The vulnerability's impact aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1068 (Local Privilege Escalation) and T1548.1 (Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism). Security researchers have identified this as a particularly dangerous flaw because it operates entirely within the system's legitimate trust boundaries, making detection and prevention challenging. The exploitability factor is high due to the lack of user interaction requirements and the direct access to system-level functionality through the compromised AccountManagerService.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper authentication checks within AccountManagerService.java functions, ensuring that all code loading requests are validated against legitimate system components. System administrators should prioritize immediate patch deployment through official Android security updates, while developers should implement additional verification layers in their applications. The recommended approach includes strengthening access control mechanisms, implementing proper request source verification, and establishing more robust authentication protocols within system service interactions. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect anomalous behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual code loading activities within system settings applications.