CVE-2025-50862 is a vulnerability identified in the Lotus Cars Android application (package name com.lotus.carsdomestic.intl), specifically version 1.2.8. The core issue stems from the app's Android manifest configuration where the attribute allowBackup is set to true. This setting permits the app's data to be backed up and restored using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) backup functionality. While this feature can be useful for legitimate backup purposes, it introduces a significant security risk when devices are either rooted or have debugging enabled. In such scenarios, an attacker with physical or remote access to the device and ADB capabilities can extract sensitive user data from the app by initiating a backup operation. This data exfiltration vector bypasses normal app sandboxing protections, potentially exposing confidential user information stored within the app's private data directories. The vulnerability does not require the app itself to be exploited remotely but depends on device-level conditions such as rooting or debug mode activation. There are no known public exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The absence of a patch or mitigation guidance from the vendor further emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive defensive measures. This vulnerability highlights the risks of insecure app manifest configurations that inadvertently expose sensitive data through legitimate Android system features.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-50862 primarily concerns the confidentiality of user data handled by the Lotus Cars Android app. If employees or customers use this app on rooted or debug-enabled devices, sensitive information could be extracted by malicious actors with physical or remote access to the device. This could lead to privacy violations, leakage of personally identifiable information (PII), or corporate data if the app is used in business contexts. The risk is heightened in sectors where user data protection is strictly regulated under GDPR, as unauthorized data exposure could result in compliance violations and financial penalties. Additionally, organizations involved in automotive services, dealerships, or connected car ecosystems that rely on the Lotus app may face reputational damage if customer data is compromised. Although exploitation requires specific device conditions (rooted/debug-enabled), the prevalence of such devices in developer or tech-savvy user populations in Europe means the threat is non-negligible. The lack of a patch means the vulnerability could persist for some time, increasing the window of exposure.

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2025-50862, organizations should take several targeted actions beyond generic advice: 1) Enforce strict device management policies that prohibit rooting and disable USB debugging on corporate or managed devices to reduce the attack surface. 2) Educate users about the risks of enabling developer options and rooting their devices, especially when using sensitive applications like the Lotus Cars app. 3) Monitor and audit devices for unauthorized rooting or debug mode activation using Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions. 4) Encourage or mandate the use of updated app versions once the vendor releases a patch that disables allowBackup or implements secure backup mechanisms. 5) If immediate patching is not possible, consider restricting the app's usage on high-risk devices or environments. 6) Implement network-level controls to detect and block suspicious ADB connections or backup attempts where feasible. 7) Collaborate with the app vendor to obtain timelines for remediation and request security updates. These measures collectively reduce the likelihood of data exfiltration via this vulnerability.