CVE-2021-0513
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows local attackers to bypass permission checks in Android's notification system, potentially gaining elevated privileges without user interaction. It affects Android devices running versions 8.1 through 11, allowing attackers to access hidden services they shouldn't normally have permission to use.
💻 Affected Systems
- Android
📦 What is this software?
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
Android by Google
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise where attacker gains system-level privileges, potentially installing persistent malware, accessing sensitive data, or disabling security controls.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation allowing access to protected system services, notification data, or other apps' data without proper authorization.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are patched or have strict app isolation policies; unprivileged apps remain contained.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires local access but is straightforward once achieved; public proof-of-concept code exists.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Android Security Patch Level 2021-06-01 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2021-06-01
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check for Android system updates in Settings > System > Advanced > System update. 2. Install the June 2021 security patch or later. 3. Reboot device after installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable unknown sources
androidPrevent installation of malicious apps that could exploit this vulnerability locally
Settings > Security > Unknown sources (disable)
Restrict app permissions
androidLimit notification permissions for untrusted applications
Settings > Apps & notifications > [App name] > Permissions > Notifications (disable)
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from sensitive networks and data
- Implement strict app vetting and only allow trusted applications from official stores
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Android version and security patch level in Settings > About phone > Android versionCheck Version:
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patchVerify Fix Applied:
Verify security patch level is June 2021 or later in Settings > About phone > Android security patch level📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual notification permission requests
- Failed permission checks in system logs
- Unexpected service access attempts
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local exploit only
SIEM Query:
Not applicable for typical enterprise SIEM as this is local Android device exploitation