CVE-2025-20956 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) affecting Samsung Mobile Devices, specifically the Galaxy Watch models prior to the SMR (Security Maintenance Release) May-2025 Release 1. The issue arises from improper exportation of Android application components within the Settings application on these devices. This misconfiguration allows physical attackers—those with direct access to the device—to access developer settings without proper authorization. Developer settings typically contain advanced configuration options that can alter device behavior, enable debugging features, or expose sensitive system controls. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality, it can lead to a significant integrity impact by allowing unauthorized changes to system settings. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium severity), with the vector indicating that exploitation requires physical access (Attack Vector: Physical), low attack complexity, no privileges required, but user interaction is needed. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is limited to Samsung Galaxy Watch devices before the May 2025 security update, and it does not affect other Samsung Mobile devices or Android phones. The improper access control flaw could be leveraged by attackers to enable debugging or developer options, potentially facilitating further attacks or unauthorized device modifications.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is primarily relevant to those deploying Samsung Galaxy Watch devices within their workforce, especially in environments where device integrity and security are critical (e.g., healthcare, finance, government). Unauthorized access to developer settings could allow malicious insiders or attackers with physical access to bypass security controls, install unauthorized software, or alter device configurations, potentially leading to data integrity issues or enabling subsequent attacks on connected systems. Although the vulnerability does not directly expose confidential data or cause denial of service, the ability to manipulate device settings undermines trust in device security and may facilitate lateral movement or espionage in sensitive environments. The physical access requirement limits remote exploitation risks but raises concerns in scenarios where devices are lost, stolen, or temporarily unattended. Organizations relying on Samsung Galaxy Watches for secure communications or authentication should consider the risk of device tampering. Given the medium severity and absence of known exploits, the immediate risk is moderate but warrants timely mitigation to prevent escalation.

1. Apply the SMR May-2025 Release 1 security update from Samsung as soon as it becomes available to ensure the vulnerability is patched. 2. Implement strict physical security controls for Samsung Galaxy Watch devices, including policies for device handling, storage, and loss reporting to minimize unauthorized physical access. 3. Disable or restrict developer options and USB debugging features on devices where possible, using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce configuration policies. 4. Educate employees on the risks of leaving devices unattended and the importance of reporting lost or stolen devices promptly. 5. Monitor device logs and behavior for unusual configuration changes or attempts to access developer settings. 6. For high-security environments, consider restricting the use of wearable devices like Galaxy Watches or segregating their network access to limit potential attack vectors. 7. Coordinate with Samsung support channels to obtain patches promptly and verify device firmware versions to ensure compliance.