CVE-2023-21492 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-532, which involves the insertion of sensitive information into log files. Specifically, certain Samsung Mobile devices running Android versions 11, 12, and 13 prior to the May 2023 Security Maintenance Release (SMR) print kernel pointers into system log files. Kernel pointers are memory addresses used by the operating system kernel, and exposing them can undermine security mechanisms like Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR). ASLR is designed to randomize memory address locations to prevent attackers from reliably exploiting memory corruption vulnerabilities. By leaking kernel pointers, this vulnerability allows a privileged local attacker to bypass ASLR, making it easier to craft exploits that escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have high privileges on the device (e.g., a local user with elevated permissions) but does not require user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.4 (medium severity), reflecting the limited attack vector (local) and the requirement for elevated privileges. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and Samsung has addressed the issue in the May 2023 SMR update. This vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality by leaking sensitive kernel memory layout information but does not directly affect system integrity or availability. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a multi-stage attack chain.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2023-21492 lies in the potential for local privilege escalation attacks on Samsung mobile devices used within corporate environments. Organizations that issue Samsung smartphones to employees, especially those with sensitive roles or access to confidential data, may face increased risk if devices are compromised by insiders or attackers with physical access. The leakage of kernel pointers can facilitate exploitation of other vulnerabilities, potentially leading to unauthorized access to corporate resources or data leakage. While the vulnerability does not directly cause denial of service or data corruption, it weakens device security posture and could be a stepping stone for more severe attacks. Given the widespread use of Samsung devices in Europe, especially in business contexts, this vulnerability could affect mobile device management (MDM) security and compliance. Additionally, sectors with high security requirements such as finance, government, and critical infrastructure may be particularly concerned about the risk of local privilege escalation on mobile endpoints.

To mitigate CVE-2023-21492, European organizations should prioritize deploying the Samsung May 2023 Security Maintenance Release (SMR) update to all affected devices running Android 11, 12, and 13. Organizations should enforce strict mobile device management policies that limit local privileged access to trusted personnel only and monitor for unusual local activity on devices. Employing endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring local privilege escalations on mobile devices can help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should educate users about the risks of granting elevated privileges to untrusted applications or users and implement strong authentication and device encryption to reduce the risk of physical compromise. Regular audits of device logs for suspicious kernel pointer disclosures or unauthorized access attempts can also help identify exploitation attempts. Where possible, restricting the use of devices with outdated firmware or unpatched vulnerabilities in sensitive environments is advisable.