CVE-2021-40000:Out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Huawei HarmonyOS Bluetooth module enables remote code execution.

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Description Preview

A critical vulnerability (CVE-2021-40000) has been identified in the Bluetooth module of Huawei HarmonyOS. This vulnerability is classified as an out-of-bounds write (CWE-787), which allows an attacker to write data past the end of the intended buffer. When successfully exploited, this vulnerability could enable an attacker to execute malicious commands remotely on affected devices, potentially leading to complete system compromise.

Overview

The vulnerability exists in the Bluetooth module of HarmonyOS devices. Out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities occur when software writes data past the end of the intended buffer, which can corrupt data, crash the program, or lead to code execution. In this specific case, the vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on affected devices through specially crafted Bluetooth communications. The severity is heightened because exploitation can occur remotely without requiring physical access to the device, and potentially without user interaction if Bluetooth is enabled.

Remediation

Users of affected HarmonyOS devices should:

  1. Update their devices to the latest system version as soon as possible through the device's system update function.
  2. When not in use, disable Bluetooth functionality to reduce the attack surface.
  3. Avoid pairing with unknown Bluetooth devices or accepting unexpected connection requests.
  4. Monitor official Huawei security bulletins for additional information and patches.
  5. Consider restricting Bluetooth usage to only trusted environments until the device is confirmed to be patched.

System administrators in enterprise environments should ensure all HarmonyOS devices are updated according to the organization's patch management policy.

References

  1. HarmonyOS Security Bulletin - December 2021: https://device.harmonyos.com/en/docs/security/update/security-bulletins-202112-0000001183296718
  2. CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write): https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/787.html
  3. Huawei PSIRT Contact: psirt@huawei.com

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction: Low
    Construction
  6. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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