CVE-2023-21309 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 10/30/2023
In libcore, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local information disclosure with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-21309 resides within the libcore component, representing a critical out-of-bounds read condition that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms. This flaw manifests when the system fails to properly verify array or buffer boundaries before accessing memory locations, creating an exploitable scenario where unauthorized data access can occur. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates without requiring any user interaction or additional execution privileges, making it inherently more dangerous than many other memory corruption issues. The absence of user interaction requirements significantly broadens the attack surface, as the flaw can be triggered automatically through normal system operations or routine data processing activities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses improper validation of array index values, and more broadly aligns with CWE-787, concerning out-of-bounds read conditions. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of code through the use of scripting languages, though in this case the exploitation occurs through memory access violations rather than direct code execution. The missing bounds check creates a predictable pattern where memory access occurs beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially exposing sensitive information stored in adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when developers assume that input data will remain within expected parameters without implementing proper validation routines.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-21309 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the local information disclosure capability can potentially reveal sensitive system data, configuration details, or user information that may be stored in memory. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract data such as cryptographic keys, authentication tokens, or other confidential information that resides in memory segments adjacent to the vulnerable buffer. The lack of privilege requirements means that even unprivileged users or processes can exploit this flaw, significantly increasing the risk to system integrity. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require specialized tools or complex attack vectors, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users or applications interact with the affected libcore component.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems, as the flaw represents a direct threat to information confidentiality. Organizations should implement comprehensive memory safety validation checks throughout their codebase, particularly focusing on array and buffer operations within the libcore library. The implementation of address space layout randomization and other memory protection mechanisms can provide additional defense-in-depth layers. Regular security audits should include specific checks for missing bounds validation in all memory operations, with particular attention to legacy code sections that may not have undergone recent security reviews. System monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous memory access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts, while also ensuring that all system components are regularly updated to address similar vulnerabilities that may exist in related libraries and frameworks.