CVE-2025-48639 is a vulnerability identified in Google Android operating system versions 13, 14, 15, and 16, specifically within the DefaultTransitionHandler.java component. The flaw enables a tapjacking or overlay attack, where a malicious app can present deceptive UI elements over legitimate permission dialogs. This manipulation can cause users to unknowingly grant elevated permissions to the attacker’s app. The vulnerability allows local escalation of privilege without requiring the attacker to have additional execution privileges initially. Exploitation necessitates user interaction, such as tapping on a disguised interface element, which triggers the permission grant. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.3, reflecting high severity due to the potential for full compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability on the device. The attack vector is local, with low attack complexity, requiring low privileges but user interaction. The scope remains unchanged as the vulnerability affects only the local system. No patches or known exploits have been reported at the time of publication, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. The underlying weakness relates to CWE-1021, which involves improper control of UI elements leading to security bypasses. This vulnerability poses a significant risk to Android users, especially in environments where sensitive data is accessed or stored on mobile devices.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a substantial risk due to the widespread 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, installation of malicious applications with elevated privileges, and potential lateral movement within enterprise networks. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational data and systems can be severely compromised. This is particularly critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where data protection is paramount. The requirement for user interaction reduces the risk somewhat but does not eliminate it, as social engineering techniques can be employed to trick users. The lack of available patches increases exposure time, necessitating interim mitigations. Additionally, compromised devices could be used as entry points for broader attacks against European infrastructure or intellectual property theft. The impact extends to privacy concerns under GDPR, as unauthorized data access could lead to regulatory penalties.

1. Educate users about the risks of tapjacking and overlay attacks, emphasizing caution when granting permissions and interacting with unexpected UI prompts. 2. Implement strict app installation policies, restricting installations to trusted sources such as the Google Play Store and using enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions to control app permissions. 3. Use Android’s built-in security features like 'Draw over other apps' permission management to limit overlay capabilities for untrusted apps. 4. Monitor device behavior for unusual permission changes or installation of apps with elevated privileges. 5. Encourage users to keep devices updated and prepare to deploy patches promptly once Google releases fixes. 6. Employ mobile threat defense (MTD) solutions that can detect and block overlay attacks and suspicious UI manipulations. 7. Limit local user privileges where possible to reduce the attack surface. 8. Conduct regular security awareness training focusing on social engineering and permission management. 9. For high-risk environments, consider restricting the use of affected Android versions until patches are available. 10. Coordinate with mobile device management (MDM) teams to enforce security policies and monitor compliance.