CVE-2021-21367: Incorrect Authorization in switchboard-plug-bluetooth
Switchboard Bluetooth Plug for elementary OS from version 2.3.0 and before version version 2.3.5 has an incorrect authorization vulnerability. When the Bluetooth plug is running (in discoverable mode), Bluetooth service requests and pairing requests are automatically accepted, allowing physically proximate attackers to pair with a device running an affected version of switchboard-plug-bluetooth without the active consent of the user. By default, elementary OS doesn't expose any services via Bluetooth that allow information to be extracted by paired Bluetooth devices. However, if such services (i.e. contact list sharing software) have been installed, it's possible that attackers have been able to extract data from such services without authorization. If no such services have been installed, attackers are only able to pair with a device running an affected version without authorization and then play audio out of the device or possibly present a HID device (keyboard, mouse, etc...) to control the device. As such, users should check the list of trusted/paired devices and remove any that are not 100% confirmed to be genuine. This is fixed in version 2.3.5. To reduce the likelihood of this vulnerability on an unpatched version, only open the Bluetooth plug for short intervals when absolutely necessary and preferably not in crowded public areas. To mitigate the risk entirely with unpatched versions, do not open the Bluetooth plug within switchboard at all, and use a different method for pairing devices if necessary (e.g. bluetoothctl CLI).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2021-21367?
CVE-2021-21367 has been classified as a medium severity vulnerability due to its potential to compromise Bluetooth security.
How do I fix CVE-2021-21367?
To fix CVE-2021-21367, update the Switchboard Bluetooth Plug to version 2.3.5 or later.
Which software versions are affected by CVE-2021-21367?
CVE-2021-21367 affects Switchboard Bluetooth Plug versions 2.3.0 to 2.3.4 on elementary OS and also affects Fedora versions 32 and 33.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2021-21367?
CVE-2021-21367 is an incorrect authorization vulnerability that allows unauthorized Bluetooth service and pairing requests.
What systems are vulnerable to CVE-2021-21367?
CVE-2021-21367 impacts systems running elementary OS with Switchboard Bluetooth Plug and Fedora versions 32 and 33.