CVE-2025-36908 is a vulnerability identified in the Android kernel, specifically within the function lwis_top_register_io in the source file lwis_device_top.c. The root cause is an incorrect bounds check that leads to a possible out-of-bounds write, classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). This flaw can be exploited locally by an attacker who already has system execution privileges to escalate their privileges further within the system. Notably, exploitation does not require any user interaction, which increases the risk of automated or stealthy attacks. The vulnerability affects the Android kernel, a critical component responsible for managing hardware and system resources, making this a significant security concern. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7, indicating a medium severity level. The vector string AV:L/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H indicates that the attack vector is local, with low attack complexity, but requires high privileges to initiate. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, meaning successful exploitation could allow an attacker to read, modify, or disrupt system operations. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no patches have been linked yet. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it could be leveraged by malicious insiders or malware that has already gained elevated access to further compromise the device or system integrity.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-36908 could be significant, especially for those relying on Android devices for critical business operations or those developing Android-based applications and services. The vulnerability allows local privilege escalation, which could enable attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or disrupt device functionality. This is particularly concerning for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where data confidentiality and system integrity are paramount. The lack of user interaction requirement means that once an attacker has limited access, they can escalate privileges without alerting the user, increasing the risk of persistent threats. Additionally, Android devices are widely used across Europe, including in corporate environments and by remote workers, potentially expanding the attack surface. The vulnerability could also affect embedded Android systems in IoT devices, which are increasingly prevalent in European industrial and smart city infrastructures, potentially leading to broader operational disruptions.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Monitor for official patches or updates from Google and Android device manufacturers and apply them promptly once available. 2) Restrict local access to Android devices, especially limiting administrative or system-level privileges to trusted personnel only. 3) Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, including restricting installation of untrusted applications and controlling device configurations. 4) Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on Android devices used within the organization to detect any signs of exploitation or anomalous behavior. 5) Educate users and administrators about the risks of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining updated software and secure device configurations. 6) For organizations developing Android-based products, review and harden kernel-level code and perform rigorous bounds checking to prevent similar issues. 7) Consider implementing runtime protection mechanisms or kernel integrity monitoring tools that can detect or prevent out-of-bounds memory writes.