CVE-2025-48522 is a local elevation of privilege vulnerability identified in the Google Android operating system, specifically affecting versions 13 through 16. The flaw resides in the setDisplayName method of the AssociationRequest.java component, where a logic error allows an application to improperly retain a Content Decryption Module (CDM) association. This retention occurs without requiring any additional execution privileges beyond those already granted to the app, and crucially, exploitation does not require any user interaction. The vulnerability enables a malicious app to escalate its privileges locally, potentially gaining unauthorized access to restricted system resources or sensitive data. Since the flaw is rooted in a logic error, it likely involves improper state management or validation within the association lifecycle of CDM, which is critical for managing secure content decryption and rights enforcement. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and the widespread deployment of affected Android versions make it a significant security concern. The absence of a CVSS score suggests that the vulnerability is newly disclosed and pending further assessment. Given the local nature of the exploit, an attacker would need to have installed a malicious app on the device, but no further permissions or user actions are necessary to trigger the privilege escalation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a considerable risk, especially for enterprises relying on Android devices for sensitive communications, mobile workforce operations, or secure content delivery. An attacker exploiting this flaw could elevate privileges on compromised devices, potentially bypassing security controls, accessing confidential corporate data, or installing persistent malware. This could lead to data breaches, intellectual property theft, or disruption of business operations. The fact that exploitation requires no user interaction increases the risk of stealthy attacks and automated exploitation within corporate environments. Additionally, sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies in Europe, which often enforce strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR), could face compliance violations and reputational damage if devices are compromised. The vulnerability also threatens the integrity of digital rights management (DRM) systems on Android devices, potentially undermining content protection mechanisms used by media and entertainment companies operating in Europe.

European organizations should prioritize the following mitigation strategies: 1) Immediate patch management: Monitor Google’s security advisories and deploy official patches or security updates for Android versions 13 to 16 as soon as they become available. 2) Application vetting: Enforce strict controls on app installation by using enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions to restrict installation to trusted sources and block potentially malicious apps. 3) Privilege monitoring: Implement runtime monitoring tools on Android devices to detect unusual privilege escalations or anomalous app behaviors indicative of exploitation attempts. 4) Device hardening: Disable or restrict CDM-related functionalities where feasible, especially on devices used for sensitive operations, to reduce the attack surface. 5) User education: Although user interaction is not required, educating users about the risks of installing untrusted apps can reduce initial infection vectors. 6) Incident response readiness: Prepare for rapid investigation and containment by integrating mobile device logs and alerts into centralized security information and event management (SIEM) systems. These measures collectively reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation and limit potential damage.