CVE-2025-48621 is a vulnerability identified in the DefaultTransitionHandler.java component of Google Android operating system versions 13 through 16. The root cause is an insecure default configuration that allows a tapjacking attack vector. Tapjacking is a UI redress attack where an attacker tricks a user into tapping on a concealed interface element, thereby triggering unintended actions. In this case, the vulnerability enables a local attacker with limited privileges to escalate their privileges on the device without needing additional execution rights. The attack requires user interaction, meaning the victim must be tricked into tapping on a malicious overlay or UI element. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.3, reflecting a high severity due to the combination of local attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and user interaction. The impact covers confidentiality, integrity, and availability, indicating that an attacker could gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify system settings, or disrupt device functionality. Although no exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s presence in multiple recent Android versions makes it a significant risk. The CWE-1188 classification relates to insecure default permissions or configurations, emphasizing the importance of secure default settings in software components. No patches are currently linked, so mitigation relies on vendor updates and interim protective measures.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk, especially those relying heavily on Android devices for business operations, communications, and data access. The ability to escalate privileges locally can lead to unauthorized access to corporate data, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of device availability. This is particularly critical for sectors like finance, healthcare, and government where data confidentiality and integrity are paramount. The requirement for user interaction means social engineering or phishing campaigns could be used to facilitate exploitation. Given the widespread use of Android devices across Europe, the vulnerability could be leveraged to target employees or executives to gain footholds in corporate networks. Additionally, mobile device management (MDM) solutions may be impacted if compromised devices are enrolled, potentially undermining organizational security controls. The lack of current exploits provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity score indicates urgent attention is needed.

1. Monitor Google’s official security advisories and apply patches promptly once they become available to address CVE-2025-48621. 2. Until patches are released, implement strict UI interaction policies, such as disabling or restricting overlay permissions for untrusted apps to reduce tapjacking risk. 3. Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools to enforce app installation policies and restrict sideloading of unverified applications. 4. Educate users about the risks of tapjacking and social engineering tactics that could lead to inadvertent interaction with malicious overlays. 5. Employ endpoint security solutions capable of detecting suspicious UI overlay behaviors or privilege escalation attempts. 6. Regularly audit device configurations to ensure no insecure defaults or unnecessary permissions are granted to apps. 7. Encourage the use of biometric or multi-factor authentication to reduce the impact of unauthorized privilege escalation. 8. Limit physical access to devices and enforce screen lock policies to prevent local attackers from initiating the exploit.