External risk intelligence

Samsung Android Kernel Information Exposure Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2021-25369

A vulnerability in Samsung Android devices allows local access to sensitive kernel information due to improper access controls in the `sec_log` file. This could lead to the exposure of critical system data, posing a risk to data confidentiality and system integrity. Mitigation involves applying vendor updates.

1Halo Surface Signal

Information Disclosure

Samsung Android

8.08.19.010.0

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2021-25369

This vulnerability is an improper access control issue within a local kernel log file on Samsung mobile devices. It requires local access to the device to exploit and does not involve any public-facing network services, protocols, or internet-accessible interfaces.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A vulnerability in the `sec_log` file on Samsung mobile devices allows unauthorized access to sensitive kernel information. This flaw stems from improper access controls, enabling local applications to read the log file and potentially expose critical system data. The impact could lead to a breach of sensitive information, compromising system integrity.

  • Vulnerable log file: `sec_log`
  • Weakness: Improper access control
  • Impact: Sensitive kernel information exposure

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An improper access control vulnerability in the sec_log file allows sensitive kernel information to be exposed to userspace. This occurs when an attacker with local access exploits the vulnerability to read restricted data. The impact is the disclosure of kernel information, potentially aiding further exploitation.- Local access required.

  • Attacker reads sensitive kernel data.
  • Sensitive data exposed.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows an attacker with limited access to a device to potentially expose sensitive kernel information. The difficulty of exploitation is considered low, requiring local access but no complex technical skills. The primary business risk is the exposure of critical system data, which could be leveraged for further attacks. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability.

  • Low attacker skill level needed.
  • Local access to the device required.
  • Potential for sensitive data exposure.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An improper access control vulnerability has been identified in the sec_log file of Samsung Android devices. This vulnerability could expose sensitive kernel information to userspace, posing a risk to data confidentiality. Organizations should take immediate steps to address this issue to protect their systems and data.

  • Identify affected Samsung mobile devices.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Apply vendor updates, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What is the vulnerability in Samsung Android devices related to the sec_log file?

An improper access control vulnerability exists in the `sec_log` file on Samsung Android devices. This flaw allows unauthorized access to sensitive kernel information, which can then be exposed to userspace. The weakness is classified as CWE-200, leading to sensitive data exposure.

How can an attacker exploit the Samsung Android kernel information exposure vulnerability?

Exploitation requires local access to the affected Samsung mobile device. An attacker with this access can leverage the improper access control in the `sec_log` file to read sensitive kernel data, thereby exposing critical system information.

What is the impact of the improper access control vulnerability in Samsung's sec_log file?

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the exposure of sensitive kernel information to userspace. This disclosure of critical system data can potentially compromise system integrity and may be used to facilitate further attacks.

What is the relevance of CVE-2021-25369 for security advisories?

CVE-2021-25369 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Samsung Android devices, specifically related to improper access control in the `sec_log` file. It allows local users to access sensitive kernel information. This vulnerability was listed on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, highlighting its significance for security advisories.

What steps should be taken to address the Samsung Android kernel information exposure vulnerability?

To address this vulnerability, organizations should first identify all affected Samsung mobile devices within their environment. It is crucial to reduce exposure by isolating risky assets if possible. The primary remediation is to apply vendor-provided updates promptly and verify successful installation. Continuous monitoring is also recommended after applying the fix.

References