CVE-2025-48629 is a vulnerability in the Android operating system affecting versions 13, 14, 15, and 16. The flaw exists in the findAvailRecognizer method within the VoiceInteractionManagerService.java component. This method is responsible for determining the default speech recognizer app. Due to an insecure default value, a local attacker with limited privileges can manipulate the system to designate their controlled app as the default speech recognizer without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. This elevation of privilege allows the attacker to gain higher-level access on the device, potentially compromising sensitive data and system integrity. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-1188, which relates to insecure default values leading to privilege escalation. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.8, indicating a high severity with attack vector local, low attack complexity, low privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no exploits have been reported in the wild, the vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the widespread use of affected Android versions. The lack of a patch at the time of reporting necessitates proactive mitigation strategies. This vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious insiders or malware that gains initial foothold with limited privileges to escalate control over the device.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-48629 is substantial due to the pervasive use of Android devices in corporate environments, including BYOD policies and mobile workforce reliance. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, interception or manipulation of voice commands, and potential lateral movement within enterprise networks. The compromise of speech recognizer privileges could also facilitate further attacks such as eavesdropping, data exfiltration, or installation of persistent malware. Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, organizations could face data breaches, operational disruptions, and reputational damage. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies in Europe that rely heavily on mobile security are particularly vulnerable. The absence of user interaction for exploitation increases the risk of stealthy attacks. Additionally, the vulnerability could undermine trust in mobile device security, affecting compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations.

Until official patches are released by Google, European organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local user privileges on Android devices, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. Employ Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor and restrict installation or modification of speech recognizer apps. Enforce policies that prevent installation of untrusted applications and regularly audit device configurations for unauthorized changes to default speech recognizer settings. Educate users about the risks of installing unknown apps and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious device behavior. Network segmentation can reduce the impact of compromised devices on broader enterprise systems. Once patches become available, prioritize rapid deployment across all affected Android devices. Additionally, consider deploying endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of identifying anomalous privilege escalations or changes in voice interaction services. Collaborate with vendors and security communities to stay informed about emerging exploit techniques related to this vulnerability.