CVE-2025-48540 is a high-severity local privilege escalation vulnerability affecting multiple recent versions of the Google Android operating system (versions 13 through 16). The flaw exists in the processTransactInternal function within RpcState.cpp, where a logic error leads to a local out-of-memory write condition. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write), which can corrupt memory and potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or escalate privileges. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker with limited privileges (local access with low privileges) to escalate their privileges on the device without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. The attack vector is local, meaning the attacker must have some form of access to the device, such as through a malicious app or compromised user account. However, no user interaction is needed once local access is obtained, increasing the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, reflecting high severity with high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all rated high), low attack complexity, and requiring only low privileges to exploit. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet, indicating that organizations should prioritize monitoring and prepare for imminent patching. The vulnerability could allow attackers to gain full control over affected Android devices, potentially leading to data theft, device manipulation, or further network compromise.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for enterprises and government agencies that rely on Android devices for secure communications, mobile workforce operations, and sensitive data access. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to bypass security controls, access confidential information, install persistent malware, or pivot to other network resources. The lack of required user interaction and the low privilege needed to exploit increase the likelihood of attacks in environments where devices are shared, or where malicious apps could be installed. This could impact sectors such as finance, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and public administration, where Android devices are commonly used. Additionally, the potential for full device compromise could undermine compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations, leading to legal and reputational consequences.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigation strategies: 1) Inventory and identify all Android devices running affected versions (13-16) to prioritize patch management once updates are released. 2) Restrict installation of apps from untrusted sources by enforcing enterprise mobility management (EMM) policies and using Google Play Protect to detect malicious apps. 3) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring for suspicious local privilege escalation attempts on Android devices. 4) Limit local access to devices by enforcing strong authentication mechanisms, including biometrics and PINs, and restricting physical access. 5) Educate users about the risks of installing unverified applications and the importance of device security hygiene. 6) Monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit code or proof-of-concept releases related to CVE-2025-48540 to respond rapidly. 7) Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing mobile device compromise scenarios. 8) Collaborate with device vendors and service providers to expedite patch deployment once available.