CVE-2025-32323 is a high-severity elevation of privilege vulnerability affecting Google Android versions 13 through 16. The flaw resides in the getCallingAppName method within Shared.java, where improper input validation allows an attacker to manipulate the permission popup text presented to users. This deceptive text can trick the system or users into granting file access improperly. Notably, exploitation does not require user interaction or additional execution privileges beyond those already available locally, making it a potent local privilege escalation vector. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation), indicating that the root cause is the failure to properly validate or sanitize input data before use. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and no user interaction needed. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild yet, the vulnerability’s nature suggests that attackers with local access could leverage it to gain elevated privileges, potentially compromising the device’s security and accessing sensitive data or system functions.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for enterprises and government agencies using Android devices for sensitive communications, data storage, or operational control. The ability to escalate privileges locally without user interaction means that malware or malicious insiders with limited access could gain higher-level control, bypassing security controls and potentially exfiltrating confidential information or disrupting services. This threat is particularly critical in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, where Android devices are increasingly integrated into workflows. The vulnerability could also undermine trust in mobile device management (MDM) solutions and complicate compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations if unauthorized access leads to data breaches. Given the widespread use of Android devices across Europe, the potential for lateral movement and persistent compromise within corporate networks is a serious concern.

1. Immediate patching: Although no patch links are provided, organizations should monitor Google’s official security bulletins and Android security updates closely and apply patches as soon as they become available. 2. Restrict local access: Limit physical and local access to Android devices, enforcing strict device usage policies and employing strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 3. Application whitelisting and sandboxing: Use application control to prevent installation or execution of untrusted apps that could exploit this vulnerability. 4. Enhance monitoring: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying unusual privilege escalation behaviors on Android devices. 5. User education: While user interaction is not required, educating users about suspicious device behavior and enforcing least privilege principles can reduce risk. 6. Device management policies: Enforce strict MDM policies that restrict app permissions and monitor for anomalous permission requests or changes. 7. Network segmentation: Isolate Android devices handling sensitive data to limit the impact of a compromised device within the network.