CVE-2025-20978 is a medium-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) affecting Samsung Mobile's PENUP application prior to version 3.9.19.32. PENUP is a social networking and digital art platform pre-installed or available on Samsung mobile devices, allowing users to create and share artwork. The vulnerability arises from insufficient access control mechanisms within the application, enabling local attackers—those with physical or logical access to the device—to access files or data with PENUP's privileges without proper authorization. According to the CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:N), the attack requires local access but no privileges or user interaction, and it can lead to a high impact on integrity, meaning attackers can modify or manipulate PENUP data or files. However, confidentiality and availability impacts are not indicated. The vulnerability does not require authentication, making it easier for an attacker with local access to exploit. There are no known exploits in the wild yet, and no patch links are provided, suggesting that a fix may still be pending or in development. The vulnerability was reserved in November 2024 and published in May 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The lack of affected versions listed implies that all versions prior to 3.9.19.32 are vulnerable, and users should upgrade to the fixed version once available. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for environments where Samsung devices with PENUP are used, especially if devices are shared or exposed to untrusted users locally.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20978 depends largely on the deployment and usage of Samsung mobile devices with PENUP installed. While PENUP is primarily a consumer-focused application, organizations that allow or issue Samsung devices to employees may face risks if local attackers gain physical or logical access to these devices. The integrity impact means attackers could alter or inject malicious content within PENUP data, potentially leading to misinformation or reputational damage if such content is shared externally. Although the vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality or availability, the ability to manipulate data without detection can undermine trust in the application and its outputs. In sectors where digital content creation and sharing are critical—such as media, creative industries, or marketing—this could have operational consequences. Additionally, if PENUP is used as a vector to access other device resources or escalate privileges, the risk could extend beyond the app itself. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but organizations should remain vigilant. The requirement for local access limits remote exploitation but does not eliminate insider threat or risks from lost/stolen devices. Overall, the threat is moderate but should be addressed promptly to prevent potential misuse.

1. Upgrade PENUP to version 3.9.19.32 or later as soon as the patch is officially released by Samsung to ensure the vulnerability is remediated. 2. Enforce strict physical security controls on mobile devices, including lock screens with strong authentication, to prevent unauthorized local access. 3. Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions that can restrict installation or usage of vulnerable applications or enforce timely updates. 4. Educate users about the risks of leaving devices unattended or lending them to untrusted individuals. 5. Monitor device usage and audit application data integrity regularly to detect any unauthorized modifications. 6. If PENUP is not essential for business operations, consider uninstalling or disabling the app on corporate devices until patched. 7. Coordinate with Samsung support channels for timely updates and advisories related to this vulnerability. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling local access, enforcing update policies, and monitoring data integrity specific to the PENUP app context.