CVE-2025-22406 is a high-severity local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Google Android version 15. The flaw exists in the Bluetooth Network Encapsulation Protocol (BNEP) implementation, specifically within the function bnepu_check_send_packet in the bnep_utils.cc source file. The vulnerability is a use-after-free (CWE-416) condition, which occurs when the program continues to use a pointer after the memory it points to has been freed. This can lead to unpredictable behavior, including the possibility of arbitrary code execution. In this case, an attacker with local access to the device can exploit this vulnerability to escalate privileges without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.4, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no privileges or user interaction required. The vulnerability allows an attacker to execute code in a privileged context, potentially gaining full control over the affected device. Since the flaw is in the Bluetooth stack, exploitation requires proximity or local access, but no user action is needed once the attacker has access. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, indicating that mitigation may rely on vendor updates once available. This vulnerability is critical for Android 15 devices, which are widely used in smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices, making it a significant threat vector for local attackers aiming to bypass security controls and gain elevated privileges.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-22406 can be substantial, especially for those relying heavily on Android 15 devices for business operations, mobile workforce, or IoT deployments. The vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges without user interaction, potentially leading to full device compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, interception of communications, installation of persistent malware, and lateral movement within corporate networks. Given the Bluetooth-based nature of the vulnerability, attackers could exploit it in physical proximity scenarios such as offices, public transport, or conferences, increasing the risk of targeted attacks against employees or executives. The compromise of mobile devices can undermine endpoint security, leading to data breaches, intellectual property theft, and disruption of business continuity. Additionally, organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure may face compliance violations and reputational damage if exploited. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score underscores the urgency of addressing this vulnerability promptly.

To mitigate CVE-2025-22406 effectively, European organizations should: 1) Prioritize updating all Android 15 devices to the latest security patches as soon as Google releases them, ensuring the Bluetooth stack vulnerability is addressed. 2) Implement strict device management policies that restrict Bluetooth usage in sensitive environments, including disabling Bluetooth when not needed or enforcing connection whitelists. 3) Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor and control device configurations, enforce patch compliance, and detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 4) Educate employees about the risks of Bluetooth-based attacks and encourage vigilance regarding unknown or suspicious Bluetooth connections. 5) For high-risk environments, consider physical security controls to limit attacker proximity, such as shielding or restricted access zones. 6) Monitor security advisories from Google and cybersecurity vendors for updates, exploit reports, and additional mitigation guidance. 7) Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing on mobile endpoints to identify potential exploitation vectors. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the Bluetooth attack surface, patch management urgency, and operational controls to reduce exposure.