CVE-2023-21145 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2023
In updatePictureInPictureMode of ActivityRecord.java, there is a possible bypass of background launch restrictions due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21145 resides within the Android operating system's ActivityRecord.java component, specifically in the updatePictureInPictureMode method. This flaw represents a critical logic error that undermines the system's background launch restriction mechanisms designed to prevent unauthorized background application execution. The vulnerability operates at a fundamental level within the Android application lifecycle management system, where Picture-in-Picture mode functionality intersects with permission controls and background execution policies.
The technical flaw manifests as a bypass mechanism that allows malicious applications to circumvent the intended restrictions governing when and how applications can launch or operate in the background. This logic error creates a pathway for privilege escalation without requiring any additional malicious code execution or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous from a security perspective. The vulnerability specifically targets the enforcement mechanisms that should prevent unauthorized background activities, effectively weakening the operating system's core security boundaries. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, as it permits unauthorized access to restricted system resources through flawed permission enforcement.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges while maintaining stealth. The lack of user interaction requirements means that exploitation can occur automatically without any human intervention, making it particularly concerning for mobile device security. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to device resources, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further exploitation of other system components. The vulnerability affects Android systems where Picture-in-Picture mode functionality is implemented, creating a persistent threat vector that could be exploited across multiple device generations and Android versions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-21145 require immediate system updates from vendors, as the vulnerability exists within core operating system components that cannot be patched through traditional application-level fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive mobile device management policies that enforce timely security updates and monitor for unauthorized background application activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust access control mechanisms and proper code review processes for system-level components. Security teams should also consider implementing network-based monitoring to detect anomalous background application behaviors that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for local privilege escalation and T1543 for persistence mechanisms, highlighting its potential for creating long-term system compromise opportunities.