CVE-2025-21065 is a vulnerability identified in Samsung Mobile's Retail Mode software, which is used primarily on Samsung devices deployed in retail environments for demonstration purposes. The root cause is improper input validation (CWE-20) in versions prior to 5.59.11, allowing attackers with limited privileges on their own devices to execute privileged commands. This means that a user who has access to the device in Retail Mode can escalate their privileges and perform actions that should be restricted, potentially compromising device confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.6, reflecting a medium severity level. The attack vector is physical or local (AV:P), requiring low complexity (AC:L) and low privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N). The scope remains unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H). No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no patch links are currently provided, although the fixed version is identified as 5.59.11 or later. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for environments where Samsung devices are used in Retail Mode, such as stores or kiosks, where attackers could misuse the device to gain unauthorized control or extract sensitive information.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-21065 can be significant, especially for retailers and businesses that deploy Samsung devices in Retail Mode for customer demonstrations. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized execution of privileged commands, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or disrupt device functionality. This could result in data breaches, loss of customer trust, and operational disruptions. Given the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, organizations could face regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is compromised. The vulnerability's local attack vector means that physical or local access to devices is required, which is plausible in retail or public environments. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability is publicly known. Therefore, European organizations using Samsung Retail Mode devices must act proactively to mitigate risks.

To mitigate CVE-2025-21065, organizations should immediately verify the version of Samsung Retail Mode software deployed on their devices and upgrade to version 5.59.11 or later where the vulnerability is fixed. Until patches are applied, restrict physical and local access to devices running Retail Mode to trusted personnel only. Implement strict access controls and monitoring on devices to detect unauthorized usage or privilege escalation attempts. Disable Retail Mode on devices not actively used for demonstration purposes. Employ endpoint security solutions that can detect anomalous command execution or privilege escalation behaviors. Regularly audit device configurations and logs for suspicious activity. Additionally, educate retail staff about the risks of unauthorized device access and enforce policies to prevent misuse. Coordination with Samsung support channels for official patches and guidance is recommended once available.