CVE-2025-26455 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Google Android versions 13, 14, and 15. The flaw exists in multiple functions within the NdkMediaCodec.cpp component, where a heap buffer overflow leads to an out-of-bounds write. This type of memory corruption can allow an attacker to overwrite adjacent memory, potentially altering program control flow or corrupting data. The vulnerability enables a local attacker to escalate privileges without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.8 reflects the significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and limited privileges required. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-122 (Heap-based Buffer Overflow), a common and dangerous class of memory safety errors. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the flaw and the widespread use of Android make this a critical issue to address promptly. The absence of required user interaction and the ability to escalate privileges locally mean that malicious apps or compromised processes on the device could leverage this vulnerability to gain higher privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise or unauthorized access to sensitive data.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying heavily on Android devices for business operations, including mobile workforce management, secure communications, and access to corporate resources. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, install persistent malware, or exfiltrate sensitive information. Given the local nature of the exploit, insider threats or malicious applications distributed via unofficial app stores or phishing campaigns could leverage this flaw. The impact extends to sectors with high mobile device usage such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies, where data confidentiality and integrity are paramount. Additionally, compromised devices could serve as entry points into corporate networks, increasing the risk of lateral movement and broader cyberattacks. The vulnerability also threatens the availability of devices if exploited to cause crashes or system instability. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated exploitation in targeted attacks or malware campaigns.

European organizations should prioritize patching affected Android devices as soon as official updates become available from Google or device manufacturers. Until patches are deployed, organizations should implement strict application control policies to prevent installation of untrusted or unsigned apps, reducing the risk of local exploitation. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security configurations, monitor device integrity, and restrict privilege escalation attempts. Regularly audit installed applications and remove unnecessary or suspicious software. Educate users about the risks of installing apps from unofficial sources and the importance of timely updates. Network segmentation can limit the impact of compromised devices by restricting access to sensitive systems. Additionally, consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying anomalous behaviors indicative of privilege escalation attempts. For high-risk environments, disabling or restricting access to vulnerable media codec functionalities where feasible may reduce exposure.