CVE-2021-39793 Google Pixel: 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 May 2, 2022
What to do
- Install Google's security update for Pixel. 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
- Google Pixel Out-of-Bounds Write Vulnerability
- Product
- Google Pixel
- CISA description
- Google Pixel contains a possible out-of-bounds write due to a logic error in the code that could lead to local escalation of privilege.
- Type of flaw
- Memory-safety flaw (CWE-787)
- Confirmed exploited
- Apr 11, 2022
- US federal patch deadline
- May 2, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2021-39793 ·
Questions about CVE-2021-39793
Is CVE-2021-39793 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2021-39793 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Apr 11, 2022, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2021-39793?
Install Google's security update for Pixel. 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-2021-39793?
Only if you use Google Pixel. This one is aimed at devices or apps of the kind people own.