Is CVE-2021-40017 actively exploited?

No active exploitation of CVE-2021-40017 has been confirmed so far. Continue monitoring, as exploit status can change.

Can CVE-2021-40017 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2021-40017 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2021-40017?

CVE-2021-40017 has a CVSS score of 9.8 (CRITICAL).

HOME VULNERABILITIESCVE-2021-40017

CRITICAL

CVE-2021-40017

CWE-20Published: September 16, 2022· Updated: Jun 17, 2026

9.8

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

The HW_KEYMASTER module lacks the validity check of the key format. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability may result in out-of-bounds memory access.

NVD Source

Risk Analysis

The HW_KEYMASTER module fails to properly validate key formats, leading to potential out-of-bounds memory access. This critical flaw has a CVSS score of 9.8 and is remotely exploitable.

No public exploit is currently available, and the vulnerability is not tracked in the CISA KEV.

Recommended Action

Apply the latest security updates for Huawei EMUI 11.0.1, 12.0.0, or HarmonyOS 2.0.

Generated by the CTIWATCH analysis pipeline from this CVE's metadata (CVSS, EPSS, KEV status, exploit intelligence). Verify against vendor advisories before acting.

Technical Analysis

CVE-2021-40017 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.

A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.