CVE-2025-48522 is a high-severity elevation of privilege vulnerability affecting Google Android versions 13 through 16. The vulnerability arises from a logic error in the setDisplayName function within the AssociationRequest.java component. Specifically, an application can exploit this flaw to retain a Content Decryption Module (CDM) association improperly. This retention allows the app to escalate its privileges locally without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-693, which relates to protection mechanism failures. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope remains unchanged (S:U). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature allows a malicious app already installed on a device to gain unauthorized elevated privileges, potentially compromising sensitive data and system integrity. The absence of patch links suggests that fixes may still be pending or in development.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks, especially for enterprises relying on Android devices for business operations, including mobile workforce management, secure communications, and access to corporate resources. An attacker exploiting this flaw could gain elevated privileges on affected devices, enabling unauthorized access to confidential information, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of device functionality. This could lead to data breaches, loss of intellectual property, and compromise of user privacy. Given the widespread use of Android devices across Europe, including in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, the potential impact is substantial. Moreover, the lack of required user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation, increasing the threat level. The vulnerability could also facilitate lateral movement within corporate networks if compromised devices connect to internal systems, amplifying the overall security risk.

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy. Firstly, they must monitor official Google Android security bulletins closely and apply patches immediately once available. Until patches are released, organizations should enforce strict application vetting policies, limiting installation to trusted sources and employing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to control app permissions rigorously. Employing runtime application self-protection (RASP) and behavior-based anomaly detection on Android devices can help identify suspicious privilege escalations. Additionally, organizations should educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and enforce the use of endpoint security solutions capable of detecting privilege escalation attempts. Network segmentation should be used to isolate mobile devices from critical infrastructure to limit potential lateral movement. Finally, regular audits of device configurations and installed applications will help identify and remediate potential exploitation vectors.