CVE-2025-48599 is a vulnerability identified in Google Android versions 13 and 14, specifically within multiple functions of the WifiScanModeActivity.java source file. The root cause is a missing permission check that allows bypassing device configuration restrictions. This flaw enables a local attacker to escalate privileges on the device without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction, which significantly lowers the barrier for exploitation. The vulnerability is classified as a local elevation of privilege, meaning the attacker must have some form of local access to the device but can then gain higher privileges than originally permitted. The absence of user interaction means the exploit can be executed silently once local access is obtained. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the widespread use of Android 13 and 14 in mobile devices globally. The lack of a CVSS score suggests the need for a manual severity assessment, which considers the impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as well as exploitation complexity. The vulnerability could allow attackers to manipulate device configurations or access sensitive system components, potentially leading to further compromise or data leakage. The flaw is expected to be addressed by Google in future security patches, but until then, affected devices remain at risk. The vulnerability's presence in core Android components highlights the importance of timely patching and restricting local device access to mitigate exploitation risks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the high penetration of Android devices in both consumer and enterprise environments. An attacker with local access—such as through physical possession, malicious apps with limited privileges, or compromised peripherals—could escalate privileges to gain unauthorized control over the device. This could lead to exposure or modification of sensitive corporate data, disruption of mobile device management policies, or further lateral movement within corporate networks. The lack of required user interaction increases the stealth and likelihood of successful exploitation. Organizations relying heavily on Android devices for fieldwork, remote access, or BYOD policies are particularly vulnerable. The impact extends to confidentiality and integrity of data on mobile devices, with potential availability impacts if system controls are manipulated. Given the widespread use of Android 13 and 14 in Europe, the threat could affect a broad range of sectors including finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure. Failure to address this vulnerability could result in regulatory compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

1. Apply official security patches from Google as soon as they become available for Android versions 13 and 14. 2. Enforce strict local device access controls, including strong authentication and physical security measures, to prevent unauthorized local access. 3. Limit installation of apps to trusted sources and use mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and monitor for suspicious privilege escalations. 4. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools on mobile devices to detect anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 5. Educate users on the risks of granting local access or installing untrusted applications, especially in corporate environments. 6. Regularly audit device configurations and permissions to identify and remediate potential security gaps. 7. For high-risk environments, consider restricting use of Android 13 and 14 devices until patches are applied or deploying additional endpoint security controls to mitigate exploitation risk.