CVE-2025-48544 is a recently published vulnerability affecting multiple versions of the Google Android operating system, specifically versions 13 through 16. The vulnerability arises from SQL injection flaws present in multiple locations within the Android platform. These SQL injection issues allow an attacker to read files belonging to other applications on the same device. Exploitation of this vulnerability does not require any additional execution privileges or user interaction, meaning that an attacker with local access to the device can leverage this flaw to escalate their privileges. By exploiting the SQL injection, the attacker can bypass normal application sandboxing and access sensitive data stored by other apps, potentially leading to unauthorized data disclosure and further compromise of the device. The vulnerability is classified as an elevation of privilege issue because it allows an attacker to gain higher access rights than originally permitted. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. However, the vulnerability is serious due to the lack of required user interaction and the ability to access other apps' data, which is normally protected by Android's security model.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for enterprises and government entities that rely heavily on Android devices for communication, data access, and operational tasks. The ability to read files from other apps can lead to leakage of sensitive corporate data, including credentials, confidential documents, and personal information of employees or customers. This could facilitate further attacks such as lateral movement within corporate networks or targeted espionage. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of automated or stealthy exploitation, potentially affecting large numbers of devices. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, which often use Android devices for secure communications and data processing, could face severe confidentiality breaches. Additionally, the vulnerability undermines trust in Android device security, which may impact compliance with European data protection regulations like GDPR if personal data is compromised.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Promptly apply any security patches or updates released by Google addressing CVE-2025-48544 as soon as they become available. 2) Implement strict device management policies using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to control which applications can be installed and to enforce security configurations that limit local access to sensitive data. 3) Restrict local access to Android devices by enforcing strong authentication and physical security controls to prevent unauthorized users from exploiting the vulnerability. 4) Monitor device logs and behavior for unusual access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, especially focusing on inter-app communication and file access anomalies. 5) Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications or connecting to unsecure networks, as these can increase the attack surface. 6) Consider deploying application sandboxing or containerization technologies to further isolate sensitive apps and data. 7) For high-risk environments, evaluate the use of Android Enterprise Recommended devices that receive timely security updates and have enhanced security features.