CVE-2025-48637
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes an integer overflow vulnerability in Android kernel's mem_protect.c functions, allowing local privilege escalation without user interaction. Attackers can exploit this to gain elevated privileges on affected devices. The vulnerability affects Android devices running vulnerable kernel versions.
💻 Affected Systems
- Android
📦 What is this software?
Android by Google
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete system compromise with root access, allowing installation of persistent malware, data theft, and device control.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if SELinux/app sandboxing prevents privilege escalation, though kernel compromise remains possible.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires local access but no user interaction; exploitation depends on specific kernel configurations.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Android December 2025 security patch level or later
Vendor Advisory: https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/2025-12-01
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Apply December 2025 Android security patch. 2. Update device firmware through manufacturer channels. 3. Reboot device after update.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict local access
allLimit physical and remote local access to devices
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from sensitive networks
- Implement strict access controls and monitoring
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Android security patch level in Settings > About phone > Android versionCheck Version:
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patchVerify Fix Applied:
Verify security patch level is December 2025 or later📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Kernel panic logs
- Unexpected privilege escalation attempts
- SELinux denials related to mem_protect
Network Indicators:
- Unusual local process communications
SIEM Query:
source="android_kernel" AND (event="panic" OR event="oops")