CVE-2025-22421 is a vulnerability identified in the Android operating system, specifically affecting versions 13, 14, and 15. The flaw exists in the NotificationContentDescription.kt file, within the contentDescForNotification function. Due to a logic error in the code, notification content can be inadvertently leaked through the lockscreen. This means that sensitive information intended to be hidden when the device is locked may be exposed to anyone with physical access to the device without requiring any additional privileges or user interaction. The vulnerability is a local information disclosure issue, allowing an attacker with physical access to the device to view notification content that should be protected. Since no elevated execution privileges or user interaction are needed, the exploitability is straightforward once the attacker has access to the locked device. However, the attack vector is limited to local access rather than remote exploitation. The vulnerability does not currently have a CVSS score assigned, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The root cause is a logic error in how notification content descriptions are handled and displayed on the lockscreen, which bypasses intended privacy controls.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability primarily concerns the confidentiality of sensitive information displayed in notifications on Android devices used within the enterprise. Many organizations rely on Android smartphones for communication, including email, messaging apps, and enterprise applications that may display sensitive data in notifications. If an attacker gains physical access to a locked device, they could view confidential information such as meeting details, authentication codes, or private messages without unlocking the device. This could lead to information leakage, social engineering, or further targeted attacks. While the vulnerability does not allow remote compromise or device control, the risk is significant in environments where devices are frequently left unattended or lost/stolen, such as in fieldwork, public spaces, or during travel. The impact on integrity and availability is minimal, but the breach of confidentiality could violate data protection regulations like GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed. Organizations with strict data privacy requirements and those handling sensitive personal or corporate data on Android devices should consider this vulnerability a notable risk.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should: 1) Apply security updates and patches from Google as soon as they become available for affected Android versions (13, 14, 15). 2) Configure device lockscreen notification settings to limit or disable the display of sensitive content on the lockscreen. This includes setting notifications to 'hide sensitive content' or 'do not show notifications at all' on the lockscreen. 3) Enforce device management policies via Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to centrally control notification visibility settings and ensure compliance. 4) Educate users about the risks of leaving devices unattended and the importance of physical security. 5) Consider additional endpoint protection measures such as full-disk encryption and strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the risk of unauthorized physical access. 6) Monitor for any updates or advisories from Google regarding this vulnerability and any emerging exploits.