CVE-2025-48593 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability identified in the Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile (HFP) client implementation within Google Android, specifically in the function bta_hf_client_cb_init located in the source file bta_hf_client_main.cc. The flaw is a use-after-free bug, which occurs when the program continues to use memory after it has been freed, leading to undefined behavior that attackers can exploit to execute arbitrary code remotely. This vulnerability affects Android versions 13, 14, 15, and 16, covering a broad range of currently supported and widely deployed Android releases. The exploit does not require any additional execution privileges, meaning an attacker can leverage this vulnerability without needing elevated permissions on the device. Furthermore, no user interaction is required, enabling remote exploitation simply by being within Bluetooth range or potentially via crafted Bluetooth packets. The absence of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and has not yet been fully scored, but the technical details suggest a high-risk scenario. No known exploits have been reported in the wild so far, but the potential for exploitation is significant given the nature of the bug and the ubiquity of Android devices. The vulnerability could allow attackers to gain full control over affected devices, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability. This could lead to data theft, device manipulation, or denial of service. The Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile is commonly used for hands-free calling and audio streaming in vehicles and headsets, making this vulnerability particularly relevant for mobile users and IoT environments. The vulnerability's presence in core Android Bluetooth components means that mitigation will require vendor patches and updates distributed through Android security updates.

The impact of CVE-2025-48593 on European organizations is substantial due to the widespread use of Android devices across enterprises and consumers. Successful exploitation could lead to complete device takeover, allowing attackers to access sensitive corporate data, intercept communications, or deploy further malware. This is particularly critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure, where data confidentiality and system integrity are paramount. The lack of user interaction requirement increases the risk of stealthy attacks, potentially affecting large numbers of devices in dense urban or corporate environments. Additionally, the Bluetooth vector means attackers could exploit this vulnerability in physical proximity scenarios, such as offices, public transport, or conference venues, making it a threat to mobile workforce security. The potential for disruption extends to IoT devices and automotive systems that rely on Android-based Bluetooth stacks, impacting operational technology and safety-critical systems. The vulnerability could also facilitate lateral movement within corporate networks if compromised devices connect to internal resources. Overall, the threat could lead to significant financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

To mitigate CVE-2025-48593, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Monitor for and promptly apply official Android security patches as soon as Google releases updates addressing this vulnerability; 2) Temporarily disable Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile functionality on devices where it is not essential, reducing the attack surface; 3) Implement network segmentation and restrict Bluetooth access in sensitive environments to limit exposure; 4) Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and ensure timely patch deployment across all corporate Android devices; 5) Educate users about the risks of Bluetooth attacks and encourage disabling Bluetooth when not in use; 6) Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of monitoring unusual Bluetooth activity or signs of exploitation; 7) Collaborate with automotive and IoT vendors to assess and patch devices that may incorporate affected Android Bluetooth stacks; 8) Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on Bluetooth attack vectors; 9) Maintain up-to-date inventories of Android devices and their OS versions to prioritize patching efforts; 10) Consider implementing Bluetooth anomaly detection systems in corporate environments to identify suspicious connection attempts.