CVE-2025-36931 is a vulnerability identified in the Android kernel, specifically within the GetHostAddress function in the gxp_buffer.h source file. The root cause is a missing bounds check that leads to a possible out-of-bounds write, a classic memory corruption issue categorized under CWE-120 (Buffer Copy without Checking Size of Input) and CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write). This flaw allows a local attacker, who already has limited execution privileges on the device, to perform a write operation beyond the intended buffer boundary. Such memory corruption can be leveraged to escalate privileges on the device, potentially granting the attacker kernel-level access. Notably, exploitation does not require any user interaction, nor does it require the attacker to have elevated execution privileges initially, lowering the barrier for exploitation. The vulnerability affects the Android kernel, which is the core component of the Android operating system used in billions of devices worldwide. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity level, with metrics AV:L (local attack vector), AC:L (low attack complexity), PR:L (low privileges required), UI:N (no user interaction), and impacts rated high on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date, the potential for exploitation is significant due to the nature of the vulnerability and the critical role of the kernel. The vulnerability was reserved in April 2025 and published in December 2025, but no official patches have been linked yet, emphasizing the need for vigilance and prompt patching once available.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-36931 can be substantial given the widespread use of Android devices in both consumer and enterprise environments. A successful local privilege escalation attack could allow adversaries to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, install persistent malware, or disrupt device functionality. This could affect mobile workforce productivity, compromise corporate data confidentiality, and potentially serve as a foothold for lateral movement within corporate networks. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, which rely heavily on mobile devices for secure communications and operations, are particularly at risk. The vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously elevates the threat level. Additionally, the lack of required user interaction means that automated or stealthy exploitation is feasible once local access is obtained, increasing the risk of undetected compromise. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but also underscores the urgency for patch deployment and enhanced monitoring.

1. Monitor official Google and Android security advisories closely and apply kernel patches immediately once they are released to remediate CVE-2025-36931. 2. Implement strict access controls on Android devices to limit the ability of untrusted or low-privileged applications and users to execute code locally. 3. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, restrict installation of untrusted applications, and control device configurations. 4. Use runtime protection mechanisms such as SELinux enforcing mode on Android devices to limit the impact of potential exploits. 5. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on mobile device fleets to identify devices running vulnerable kernel versions. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of avoiding installation of unverified applications or granting unnecessary permissions. 7. Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting anomalous local privilege escalation attempts on Android devices. 8. Where feasible, isolate critical applications and data using containerization or sandboxing to reduce the impact of a compromised device kernel.