CVE-2025-20973 in Secure Folder
Summary
by MITRE • 05/07/2025
Improper authentication in Secure Folder prior to version 1.8.12.0 in Android 13, and 1.9.21.00 in Android 14 allows physical attackers to reset the lock type of Secure Folder.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2025
This vulnerability resides in the Secure Folder implementation within Android operating systems, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.8.12.0 on Android 13 and 1.9.21.00 on Android 14. The issue represents a critical authentication flaw that undermines the security posture of sensitive data storage mechanisms. Secure Folder serves as a dedicated encrypted container for storing confidential information, requiring proper authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access. The vulnerability allows attackers with physical access to the device to bypass the lock type reset functionality, effectively undermining the entire secure folder protection model.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate validation of authentication contexts during lock type reset operations within the Secure Folder component. This improper authentication mechanism fails to properly verify the identity of users attempting to modify security settings, creating an attack vector where malicious actors can exploit the absence of proper access controls. The vulnerability manifests when physical attackers can manipulate the secure folder's lock settings without proper authentication, potentially enabling them to downgrade security measures or bypass existing protections entirely. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and authentication integrity that should govern all security-critical system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, particularly in environments where physical device compromise is possible. Attackers can exploit this weakness to reset or modify lock types, potentially transitioning from biometric or PIN-based authentication to less secure alternatives, or even disabling authentication entirely. This creates opportunities for unauthorized data access, information disclosure, and potential full device compromise. The vulnerability is especially concerning in corporate environments where sensitive data may be stored within Secure Folder, as it provides attackers with a direct path to bypass enterprise security policies and access confidential information.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The flaw demonstrates a failure in implementing proper access control mechanisms and authentication validation processes. Additionally, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1552.001 which covers "Credentials: Credentials In Files" and T1552.006 which addresses "Credentials: Network Logon Script" in the context of authentication bypasses. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including mandatory security updates to the affected versions, device enrollment in mobile device management solutions, and enhanced physical security controls. The recommended remediation involves updating to the patched versions of Secure Folder, implementing additional monitoring for unauthorized lock type changes, and conducting security awareness training for personnel handling sensitive devices.