CVE-2021-25371 Samsung Mobile Devices: hidden backdoor
In plain words: The software was shipped with hidden malicious code inside it. Whoever planted it has secret access to every copy.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline Jul 20, 2023
What to do
- Install Samsung's security update for Mobile Devices. 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
- Samsung Mobile Devices Unspecified Vulnerability
- Product
- Samsung Mobile Devices
- CISA description
- Samsung mobile devices contain an unspecified vulnerability within DSP driver that allows attackers to load ELF libraries inside DSP.
- Type of flaw
- Hidden backdoor (CWE-912)
- Confirmed exploited
- Jun 29, 2023
- US federal patch deadline
- Jul 20, 2023
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Answering about CVE-2021-25371 ·
Questions about CVE-2021-25371
Is CVE-2021-25371 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2021-25371 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Jun 29, 2023, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2021-25371?
Install Samsung's security update for Mobile Devices. 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-2021-25371?
Only if you use Samsung Mobile Devices. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.