CVE-2025-48564 is a vulnerability identified in Google Android versions 13, 14, 15, and 16, involving a race condition that leads to an intent filter bypass. Intent filters in Android define how apps respond to intents, which are messaging objects used for inter-component communication. The race condition allows an attacker with local access and low privileges to exploit timing issues in intent filter processing, bypassing normal security checks. This results in an elevation of privilege without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-362 (Race Condition), indicating a flaw in concurrent processing that can be exploited to alter program behavior. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.0, reflecting high severity with local attack vector, high complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the potential for attackers to gain unauthorized access and control over affected devices. The absence of patches at the time of reporting necessitates proactive mitigation strategies. This vulnerability could be leveraged to compromise sensitive data, disrupt device operation, or facilitate further attacks within enterprise environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk, particularly for those relying on Android devices for business operations, secure communications, or access to corporate resources. The ability to escalate privileges locally without user interaction means that insider threats or attackers who gain limited access to devices can potentially compromise entire systems. Confidentiality could be breached through unauthorized data access, integrity compromised by unauthorized modifications, and availability affected by malicious actions disrupting device functionality. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are especially vulnerable due to the sensitive nature of their data and operations. The widespread use of Android devices across Europe amplifies the potential impact, as attackers could target numerous endpoints to gain footholds in corporate networks. Additionally, the lack of current patches increases the window of exposure, necessitating immediate attention to risk management and mitigation.

1. Monitor official Google and Android security advisories closely and apply patches promptly once released. 2. Restrict local access to Android devices, enforcing strict physical security and device management policies to limit exposure to untrusted users. 3. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, monitor device behavior, and restrict installation of untrusted applications. 4. Implement application whitelisting and privilege restrictions to minimize the attack surface. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on local privilege escalation vectors. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local privilege escalation and the importance of device security. 7. Consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying suspicious local activity indicative of exploitation attempts. 8. For high-risk environments, consider isolating critical Android devices from less secure networks or limiting their use to essential functions only until patches are applied.