CVE-2026-21074 in Bixby
Summary
by MITRE • 08/10/2026
Incorrect default permissions in Bixby prior to version 4.0.86.0 allows local attackers to execute arbitrary commands with Bixby privilege.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Samsung's Bixby virtual assistant software affecting versions prior to 4.0.86.0. The issue stems from improper default permission configurations that create an insecure baseline execution environment where local malicious actors can exploit the system to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability manifests through the manipulation of default file permissions and access controls that should normally restrict unauthorized command execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary commands with Bixby's elevated privilege level, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries that protect the assistant application from unauthorized modification or control.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the improper initialization of permission sets within the Bixby runtime environment where default access controls are configured with overly permissive settings. This misconfiguration allows local processes to manipulate system resources that should remain protected from arbitrary execution. The vulnerability operates at the operating system level where file descriptors, process permissions, and privilege escalation mechanisms fail to properly enforce access control policies. According to the CWE framework, this maps directly to CWE-276 which describes improper permissions for a resource, specifically in the context of inadequate access control mechanisms that allow unauthorized privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution as it creates a persistent backdoor for attackers who can maintain elevated privileges within the device's security boundaries. Once exploited, malicious actors gain access to Bixby's full feature set including voice recognition capabilities, system integration functions, and potentially sensitive data access points. The attack surface is particularly concerning given Bixby's deep integration with Android system services and its ability to interact with core device functions through privileged interfaces. This vulnerability creates opportunities for both initial compromise and persistent access that could enable more sophisticated attacks such as data exfiltration or further system exploitation.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate patching to version 4.0.86.0 or later where Samsung has implemented proper permission controls and access restriction mechanisms. System administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of Bixby installations to verify proper permission configurations and ensure that all default settings have been correctly applied. Device manufacturers must implement robust privilege separation mechanisms and regular security assessments to prevent similar issues in future releases. Additionally, users should be educated about the importance of keeping their device software updated and monitoring for unusual behavior that might indicate unauthorized access or manipulation of system components. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques where adversaries leverage insecure default configurations to gain elevated system privileges, making it a significant concern for mobile device security and enterprise endpoint protection strategies.