CVE-2025-48536 is a vulnerability identified in the Android operating system, specifically affecting versions 13, 14, 15, and 16. The flaw exists in the grantAllowlistedPackagePermissions function within the SettingsSliceProvider.java component. This function is responsible for granting certain permissions to allowlisted packages. Due to a confused deputy problem—a scenario where a privileged component is tricked into misusing its authority—a third-party application with limited privileges can manipulate secure system settings without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. This manipulation can lead to a local escalation of privilege, enabling the attacker to gain higher-level access on the device. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-441 (Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource). The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating high severity, with vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, meaning the attack requires local access, low complexity, privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability significantly. No known exploits have been reported in the wild yet, but the vulnerability's nature makes it a critical concern for Android users and organizations. The absence of patch links suggests that fixes may still be pending or in the process of release.

The vulnerability allows a local attacker, via a malicious app with limited privileges, to escalate their privileges by modifying secure system settings. This can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the device and its data. Potential impacts include unauthorized access to sensitive information, disabling or altering security controls, and persistent device compromise. For organizations, this could lead to data breaches, loss of control over mobile endpoints, and lateral movement within corporate networks. The fact that no user interaction is required increases the risk of silent exploitation. Given Android's widespread use in consumer and enterprise environments, the vulnerability poses a significant threat to mobile device security globally.

Organizations and users should monitor official Google Android security advisories and apply patches as soon as they become available. Until patches are released, restrict installation of third-party apps from untrusted sources to minimize exposure. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce strict app permission policies and monitor for anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts. Conduct regular audits of installed applications and their permissions. Additionally, consider implementing runtime application self-protection (RASP) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions on mobile devices to detect and block suspicious activities. Developers should review and harden permission granting logic to prevent confused deputy scenarios in future releases.