CVE-2021-22385
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in Huawei smartphones allows local attackers to manipulate system settings externally, potentially leading to kernel code execution. It affects Huawei devices running HarmonyOS or EMUI. Attackers need local access to exploit this vulnerability.
💻 Affected Systems
- Huawei smartphones
📦 What is this software?
Emui by Huawei
Emui by Huawei
Emui by Huawei
Magic Ui by Huawei
Magic Ui by Huawei
Magic Ui by Huawei
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Full system compromise with kernel-level code execution, allowing complete device control, data theft, and persistence.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data and system functions.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper access controls and patching, restricting local user privileges.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local access and knowledge of vulnerable component. No public exploit code available in provided references.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: June 2021 security update or later
Vendor Advisory: https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/bulletin/2021/6/
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check for system updates in Settings > System & updates > Software update. 2. Install June 2021 or later security update. 3. Restart device after installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict local access
allLimit physical access to devices and implement strict access controls for remote shell/ADB access.
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from sensitive networks and data
- Implement strict physical security controls and monitor for suspicious local activity
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device security patch level in Settings > About phone > Build number. If before June 2021, likely vulnerable.Check Version:
Settings > About phone > Build number (GUI only, no CLI command provided)Verify Fix Applied:
Verify security patch level shows June 2021 or later in Settings > About phone.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual kernel module loading
- Suspicious privilege escalation attempts
- Unauthorized system configuration changes
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local exploitation only
SIEM Query:
Not applicable for typical mobile device management🔗 References
- https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/bulletin/2021/6/
- https://device.harmonyos.com/cn/docs/security/update/oem_security_update_phone_202106-0000001165452077
- https://consumer.huawei.com/en/support/bulletin/2021/6/
- https://device.harmonyos.com/cn/docs/security/update/oem_security_update_phone_202106-0000001165452077
