CVE-2025-22438 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Google Android versions 13 and 14. The flaw exists in the InputDispatcher component, specifically within the afterKeyEventLockedInterruptable function of InputDispatcher.cpp. The vulnerability is a use-after-free condition, where a pointer is used after the memory it references has been freed. This type of memory corruption can lead to undefined behavior, including the potential for an attacker to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges. In this case, the vulnerability allows a local attacker to elevate their privileges on the device without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. This means that an attacker who already has limited access to the device (for example, through a malicious app or compromised process) can exploit this flaw to gain higher-level privileges, potentially gaining control over the system or accessing sensitive data. The absence of user interaction and the lack of need for additional execution privileges significantly increase the risk, as exploitation can occur silently and without alerting the user. Although no known exploits are currently in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and the critical role of InputDispatcher in handling input events make it a serious concern. The vulnerability was reserved early in 2025 and published in September 2025, but no CVSS score has been assigned yet, indicating that assessment is still ongoing or pending. The lack of a patch link suggests that fixes may be forthcoming or that users should monitor official Google Android security bulletins for updates.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for enterprises and government agencies that rely on Android devices for communication, mobile workforce operations, or sensitive data access. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, access confidential information, install persistent malware, or disrupt device availability. Given that Android is widely used across Europe in both consumer and enterprise environments, the potential for lateral movement within corporate networks or escalation from a compromised device is considerable. The vulnerability could also undermine trust in mobile device management (MDM) solutions and complicate compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR if personal or sensitive data is exposed. Furthermore, sectors with high-value targets, such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, could face increased threats from attackers leveraging this flaw to gain footholds on mobile endpoints.

Organizations should prioritize the following mitigation steps: 1) Monitor official Google Android security advisories and promptly apply patches once available for Android versions 13 and 14. 2) Employ strict application vetting and limit installation of apps from untrusted sources to reduce the risk of local attackers gaining initial access. 3) Utilize Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, including restricting app permissions and controlling device configurations. 4) Implement runtime protections such as exploit mitigation technologies (e.g., Address Space Layout Randomization, Control Flow Integrity) where supported by the device. 5) Conduct regular security awareness training to inform users about risks associated with installing untrusted applications. 6) For high-risk environments, consider restricting or isolating Android device usage until patches are applied. 7) Monitor device logs and behavior for signs of privilege escalation or anomalous activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.