CVE-2024-43095 is a logic error vulnerability in Google Android versions 12, 12L, 13, 14, and 15 that allows local privilege escalation. The flaw exists in multiple code locations where the system incorrectly grants any system permission to an attacker due to improper permission checks (classified under CWE-203: Information Exposure Through Discrepancy). An attacker with limited privileges on the device can exploit this vulnerability to obtain full system permissions without needing additional execution privileges. However, exploitation requires user interaction, such as convincing the user to perform a specific action that triggers the vulnerability. The vulnerability affects core Android permission management, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, modify system settings, or disrupt device availability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8 (high), reflecting the local attack vector with low complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction needed, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of affected Android versions. The absence of available patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate attention to mitigation strategies and monitoring for updates from Google.

This vulnerability can have severe consequences for organizations and individuals relying on affected Android devices. Successful exploitation grants attackers full system permissions, enabling them to bypass security controls, access or exfiltrate sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt device functionality. This threatens confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and services on compromised devices. Organizations with mobile workforces or BYOD policies face increased risk of data breaches and operational disruptions. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against high-value individuals or organizations, especially where Android devices are used for sensitive communications or access to corporate resources. The requirement for user interaction limits automated mass exploitation but does not eliminate risk, as social engineering or malicious apps could facilitate triggering the vulnerability. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat but does not preclude future exploitation once proof-of-concept code becomes available.

1. Monitor official Google Android security bulletins and apply patches promptly once released for affected Android versions (12, 12L, 13, 14, 15). 2. Until patches are available, restrict installation of apps from untrusted sources and enforce strict app permission policies to minimize attack surface. 3. Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted content or apps that request excessive permissions. 4. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, control app installations, and monitor device behavior for anomalies. 5. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying privilege escalation attempts on Android devices. 6. Limit physical access to devices and encourage use of strong authentication to reduce risk of local exploitation. 7. Regularly audit device permissions and remove unnecessary privileges from apps. 8. Prepare incident response plans specific to mobile device compromise scenarios to enable rapid containment and remediation.