CVE-2026-21063 in Samsung
Summary
by MITRE • 08/10/2026
Improper export of android application components in AppLock prior to SMR Aug-2026 Release 1 allows physical attackers to bypass app lock function.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the AppLock functionality of Android applications, specifically affecting versions prior to the SMR August 2026 release. The issue stems from improper export configuration of application components, which creates unauthorized access pathways that allow physical attackers to circumvent the intended protection mechanisms. When application components are improperly exported, they become accessible to other applications or system processes without proper authentication or authorization checks, effectively undermining the core security model of the app lock feature.
The technical implementation flaw manifests when Android components such as activities, services, or broadcast receivers are declared with exported=true in the manifest file without appropriate intent filters or permission requirements. This configuration allows any application on the device to directly invoke these components, bypassing the authentication mechanisms that should govern access to the app lock functionality. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious applications that target these exposed components, potentially gaining unauthorized access to locked applications or performing actions such as disabling the lock mechanism entirely.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for users who rely on app lock features to protect sensitive data and applications. Physical attackers with access to a device can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to protected content, including personal information, financial data, or confidential business applications. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires only physical access to the device rather than network-based exploitation, making it accessible to a broader range of threat actors including insiders or compromised device users.
The security implications extend beyond simple bypass scenarios as this vulnerability can enable more sophisticated attacks such as credential theft, data exfiltration, or even privilege escalation within the application ecosystem. Attackers can potentially chain this vulnerability with other exploits to gain deeper system access or manipulate the application's intended behavior. This flaw directly violates several security principles including least privilege, defense in depth, and proper access control enforcement that are fundamental to secure application design.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the SMR August 2026 release where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper component export configuration. Additionally, developers should conduct comprehensive security reviews of their Android manifest files to ensure all components are properly configured with appropriate intent filters and permission requirements. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-922 which addresses insufficient export of Android application components and relates to ATT&CK technique T1546.007 for 'Event Triggered Execution' where applications can be manipulated through exposed components. System administrators should also consider implementing mobile device management policies that can detect and prevent the installation of applications with suspicious component configurations, particularly in enterprise environments where data protection is paramount.