CVE-2021-1048 Android Kernel: memory-safety flaw
In plain words: The program mishandles the memory it uses to keep track of data. A specially made input can scramble that memory. Usually lets an attacker crash the program or run their own code with its permissions.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Jun 13, 2022
What to do
- Install Android's security update for Kernel. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
- Restart your phone every few days; some spyware does not survive a reboot.
- If you are a journalist, activist, lawyer, politician or executive, turn on Lockdown Mode (iPhone) or Advanced Protection (Android).
Who is affected
Could reach you. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.
What's at risk: Messages, photos, location, microphone and camera. The most serious ones are "zero-click": no tap needed from the owner. They are usually used as spyware against a small number of chosen people.
The details
- Official name
- Android Kernel Use-After-Free Vulnerability
- Product
- Android Kernel
- CISA description
- Android kernel contains a use-after-free vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-416)
- Confirmed exploited
- May 23, 2022
- US federal patch deadline
- Jun 13, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2021-1048 ·
Questions about CVE-2021-1048
Is CVE-2021-1048 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2021-1048 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on May 23, 2022, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2021-1048?
Install Android's security update for Kernel. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Install system updates the day they come out — most phone zero-days are fixed in a point release.
Am I affected by CVE-2021-1048?
Only if you use Android Kernel. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.