CVE-2021-25489 Samsung Mobile Devices: software flaw
In plain words: A mistake in the software that attackers have found a way to abuse. Depends on the product — see the description and the vendor advisory.
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 Improper Input Validation Vulnerability
- Product
- Samsung Mobile Devices
- CISA description
- Samsung mobile devices contain an improper input validation vulnerability within the modem interface driver that results in a format string bug leading to kernel panic.
- Type of flaw
- Software flaw (CWE-20)
- Confirmed exploited
- Jun 29, 2023
- US federal patch deadline
- Jul 20, 2023
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Answering about CVE-2021-25489 ·
Questions about CVE-2021-25489
Is CVE-2021-25489 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2021-25489 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-2021-25489?
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-2021-25489?
Only if you use Samsung Mobile Devices. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.