CVE-2026-21080 Overview
CVE-2026-21080 is a cleartext storage of sensitive information vulnerability in Samsung Smart Switch prior to version 3.7.72.6. The flaw allows adjacent network attackers to access sensitive data that the application stores without encryption. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information.
Samsung Smart Switch is a data migration utility that transfers contacts, messages, media, and application data between devices. Storage of migration data in cleartext exposes personal information when an adjacent attacker can reach the device or its data path.
Critical Impact
Adjacent network attackers can retrieve unencrypted sensitive user data handled by Smart Switch, resulting in confidentiality loss without requiring authentication.
Affected Products
- Samsung Smart Switch versions prior to 3.7.72.6
- Mobile devices running vulnerable Smart Switch builds
- Data migration workflows relying on Smart Switch transfers
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-08-10 - CVE-2026-21080 published to NVD
- 2026-08-10 - Last updated in NVD database
- August 2026 - Samsung Mobile Security Update published in the Samsung Mobile Security Bulletin
Technical Details for CVE-2026-21080
Vulnerability Analysis
Smart Switch handles sensitive user data during device-to-device migration, including personal identifiers, credentials, and application state. In versions prior to 3.7.72.6, the application persists portions of this data in cleartext. An attacker positioned on the same local network segment can observe or retrieve this data without decrypting it.
The EPSS score is 0.105% with a percentile of 1.23, indicating low observed exploitation likelihood at publication. However, the low attack complexity and lack of authentication requirements make the flaw practical in shared Wi-Fi and enterprise environments.
Root Cause
The root cause maps to CWE-312: sensitive information is written or transmitted without cryptographic protection. Data that should be encrypted at rest or in transit is instead stored in a readable form. This design choice removes the confidentiality layer expected by users during migration operations.
Attack Vector
Exploitation requires adjacent network access, meaning the attacker must share a logical network with the victim device. User interaction is passive, such as running Smart Switch during a transfer. Once the adjacent position is established, the attacker reads the cleartext data through normal network observation or file access techniques. No verified proof-of-concept code is available at this time. Refer to the Samsung Mobile Security Bulletin for vendor technical details.
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-21080
Indicators of Compromise
- Smart Switch installations reporting versions earlier than 3.7.72.6 in software inventory
- Cleartext data patterns matching contact, message, or credential structures observed on local network captures
- Unexpected Smart Switch processes running while the device is connected to untrusted Wi-Fi
Detection Strategies
- Inventory endpoint and mobile management systems for Smart Switch versions below 3.7.72.6
- Inspect network telemetry for Smart Switch traffic on shared or guest networks
- Correlate Smart Switch execution events with adjacent network exposure risk
Monitoring Recommendations
- Alert when Smart Switch runs on devices connected to untrusted or public Wi-Fi
- Track Samsung Mobile Security Bulletin releases for related component advisories
- Review mobile device management logs for outdated Smart Switch versions across managed fleets
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-21080
Immediate Actions Required
- Update Samsung Smart Switch to version 3.7.72.6 or later on all managed devices
- Restrict Smart Switch usage to trusted, isolated networks until patching completes
- Audit endpoints and mobile inventories for vulnerable Smart Switch installations
Patch Information
Samsung addresses this vulnerability in Smart Switch 3.7.72.6. Apply the update through the official Samsung distribution channels referenced in the Samsung Mobile Security Bulletin for August 2026.
Workarounds
- Perform device migrations only on isolated networks that exclude untrusted devices
- Disable or uninstall Smart Switch on devices that do not require migration functionality
- Enforce policies that prevent Smart Switch execution on guest or public Wi-Fi networks
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
