CVE-2022-20611 is a high-severity local elevation of privilege vulnerability affecting multiple versions of the Android operating system, specifically Android 10 through Android 13, including Android 12L. The flaw exists in the deletePackageVersionedInternal method within the DeletePackageHelper.java component. This vulnerability allows an attacker to bypass carrier restrictions due to a permissions bypass issue. Notably, exploitation does not require any additional execution privileges beyond those already granted to the attacker, nor does it require any user interaction. The vulnerability stems from improper permission checks (CWE-276: Incorrect Default Permissions) that allow a local attacker to escalate their privileges on the device. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high severity with the vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating that the attack is local, requires low complexity, low privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree. While no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk as it could allow malicious applications or local users to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive data, or disruption of device functionality. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Android versions widely deployed in consumer and enterprise environments, making it a critical consideration for security teams managing Android devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk, especially for enterprises relying on Android devices for business operations, including mobile workforce management, secure communications, and access to corporate resources. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, access confidential corporate data, or install persistent malware with elevated privileges. This could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of critical business processes. Given the widespread use of Android devices across Europe, including in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, the impact could extend to sensitive personal data and critical infrastructure. The lack of required user interaction increases the risk of stealthy exploitation. Furthermore, organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies may face additional challenges in controlling vulnerable endpoints. The vulnerability also undermines carrier-imposed restrictions, which could affect device management and compliance with regional telecommunications regulations.

1. Immediate deployment of official security patches from device manufacturers or Android security updates is the most effective mitigation. Organizations should prioritize patch management for all Android devices running affected versions. 2. Implement strict application control policies to limit installation of untrusted or potentially malicious apps, reducing the risk of local privilege escalation. 3. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, monitor device integrity, and restrict local privilege escalation attempts. 4. Restrict physical access to devices and enforce strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized local access. 5. Regularly audit device permissions and installed applications to detect anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. For organizations unable to immediately patch, consider disabling or restricting functionalities related to package deletion or carrier restriction bypass if feasible through device configuration. 7. Educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and the importance of timely updates. 8. Monitor security advisories from Google and device vendors for updates or detection signatures related to this vulnerability.