CVE-2025-20946 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management) found in Samsung Mobile devices, specifically impacting the Galaxy Watch Bluetooth pairing process. The flaw arises from improper handling of exceptional conditions when pairing with certain Bluetooth devices. This defect allows a local attacker to bypass normal pairing restrictions and pair with the Galaxy Watch without any user interaction or authentication. The vulnerability is present in devices prior to the SMR April 2025 Release 1, indicating it affects multiple recent Galaxy Watch models. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.8 reflects a high-severity issue with attack vector requiring local access (AV:A), low attack complexity (AC:L), no privileges required (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Exploiting this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the watch’s data, manipulate device functions, or disrupt its operation. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild, the ease of exploitation and potential impact make this a critical concern for users and organizations relying on Samsung wearable devices. The vulnerability underscores the importance of robust privilege management and secure Bluetooth pairing protocols in IoT and wearable technology.

The impact of CVE-2025-20946 is significant for organizations and individuals using Samsung Galaxy Watches. Successful exploitation allows an attacker with local proximity to pair malicious Bluetooth devices without user consent, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on the watch, including health, location, and personal information. Attackers could also manipulate device functionality or disrupt availability, impacting user safety and operational continuity. For enterprises deploying these devices for workforce management, health monitoring, or secure communications, this vulnerability could lead to data breaches, loss of trust, and compliance violations. The lack of required user interaction and privileges lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing risk in environments where physical device access is possible. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability’s characteristics make it a likely target for attackers seeking to leverage wearable devices as entry points into broader networks or to conduct espionage. The widespread use of Samsung mobile devices globally amplifies the potential scale of impact.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20946, organizations and users should: 1) Apply the Samsung Mobile Security Release (SMR) April 2025 Release 1 or later patches immediately once available to address the Bluetooth pairing flaw. 2) Restrict physical access to Galaxy Watches, especially in high-risk or public environments, to prevent local attackers from initiating unauthorized pairing attempts. 3) Disable Bluetooth pairing on Galaxy Watches when not in use or in insecure locations to reduce exposure. 4) Implement device management policies that monitor and alert on unusual Bluetooth pairing activities. 5) Educate users about the risks of unauthorized device pairing and encourage vigilance for unexpected device behavior. 6) For enterprises, consider network segmentation and endpoint security controls to limit potential lateral movement if a wearable device is compromised. 7) Engage with Samsung support channels for guidance on device-specific security configurations and updates. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling physical access, monitoring Bluetooth activity, and prioritizing timely patch deployment.