CVE-2025-48599 is a vulnerability identified in Google Android versions 13 and 14, specifically within multiple functions of the WifiScanModeActivity.java component. The root cause is a missing permission check that allows bypassing device configuration restrictions. This flaw enables a local attacker, who already has some level of access to the device, to escalate their privileges without needing additional execution rights or user interaction. The vulnerability falls under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization), indicating that the software fails to properly enforce access control policies. The attack vector is local (AV:L), with low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring low privileges (PR:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). The scope is unchanged (S:U), but the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high (C:H/I:H/A:H), as the attacker can gain elevated privileges to potentially access sensitive data, modify system settings, or disrupt device functionality. Although no public exploits are currently known, the ease of exploitation and high impact make this a critical issue for Android users. The vulnerability was reserved in May 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting necessitates immediate attention from security teams to prepare for mitigation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, especially for those relying heavily on Android devices for business operations, communications, or access to sensitive information. An attacker with local access—such as through physical access, compromised apps, or insider threats—could exploit this flaw to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, manipulation of device configurations, or disruption of services. This could impact confidentiality by exposing sensitive corporate or personal data, integrity by allowing unauthorized changes to system settings or applications, and availability by enabling denial-of-service conditions. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable due to the sensitive nature of their data and operations. The lack of required user interaction increases the risk of stealthy exploitation. Additionally, the widespread use of Android devices across Europe amplifies the potential attack surface. Organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or mobile workforce should be especially vigilant.

1. Monitor official Google and Android security advisories closely and apply patches immediately once they become available. 2. Implement strict device access controls to limit local access to trusted personnel only, including physical security measures. 3. Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, restrict installation of untrusted applications, and monitor device behavior for anomalies. 4. Educate employees about the risks of installing unverified apps or granting excessive permissions that could facilitate local access. 5. Where possible, disable or restrict Wi-Fi scanning features or related services that involve WifiScanModeActivity to reduce attack vectors. 6. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on mobile device security to detect potential exploitation attempts. 7. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying privilege escalation behaviors on Android devices. 8. For high-security environments, consider device hardening techniques such as disabling developer options and USB debugging to reduce local attack opportunities.