CVE-2025-48603 is a vulnerability identified in the InputMethodInfo.java component of Google Android operating system versions 13, 14, 15, and 16. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of resources within the InputMethodInfo class, which is responsible for managing input method metadata and interactions. Specifically, the flaw can be triggered to cause resource exhaustion, leading to a permanent denial of service (DoS) condition on the device. This DoS is local, meaning it requires local access to the device but does not require any additional execution privileges or user interaction to exploit. The resource exhaustion could manifest as memory leaks, file descriptor depletion, or other resource consumption that eventually renders the input method framework or the device itself unresponsive. Since input methods are critical for user interaction with the device, their failure can effectively lock users out or degrade device functionality severely. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known at this time. The vulnerability was reserved in May 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. The absence of patches at the time of publication suggests that mitigation relies on vendor updates once released. The vulnerability affects a broad range of Android versions, including those currently supported and widely deployed in consumer and enterprise environments.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-48603 can be significant, especially for those relying heavily on Android devices for business operations, communications, and mobile workforce productivity. The vulnerability can cause devices to become unresponsive due to resource exhaustion in the input method framework, effectively denying service to end users. This can disrupt critical workflows, delay communications, and reduce operational efficiency. In sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where mobile device availability is crucial, such disruptions can have cascading effects on service delivery and compliance. Additionally, the lack of required user interaction or elevated privileges lowers the barrier for exploitation by insiders or malicious actors with local access. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise confidentiality or integrity, the availability impact alone can lead to significant operational risks. The widespread use of Android devices across Europe, including in BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) scenarios, increases the attack surface. Organizations with large mobile device fleets or those using Android-based IoT devices should be particularly vigilant. The absence of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks once exploit code becomes available.

To mitigate CVE-2025-48603 effectively, European organizations should: 1) Monitor vendor communications closely and apply official Google Android security patches promptly once released, as no patches are currently available. 2) Implement device management policies that restrict local access to Android devices, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 3) Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security configurations and monitor for anomalous resource usage patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. 4) Educate users and administrators about the risks of local access vulnerabilities and enforce physical security controls to prevent unauthorized device access. 5) Where feasible, limit the installation of untrusted or unnecessary input method applications that might trigger the vulnerability. 6) Conduct regular audits of device health and responsiveness to detect early signs of resource exhaustion. 7) Prepare incident response plans that include procedures for handling device unavailability due to this vulnerability. 8) Consider network segmentation and access controls to isolate critical mobile devices and reduce lateral movement risks if devices become compromised. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on local access control, proactive monitoring, and readiness for incident handling specific to this resource exhaustion DoS vulnerability.