CVE-2025-20997 in Galaxy Watch
Summary
by MITRE • 07/08/2025
Incorrect default permission in Framework for Galaxy Watch prior to SMR Jul-2025 Release 1 allows local attackers to reset some configuration of Galaxy Watch.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-20997 represents a critical permission misconfiguration issue within the Framework for Galaxy Watch operating system. This flaw exists in devices prior to the SMR Jul-2025 Release 1 update, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to manipulate system configuration settings. The vulnerability stems from improper default permission assignments that grant excessive privileges to local processes or applications running on the device. Such misconfigurations typically occur when system components are configured with overly permissive access controls during the initial setup or installation process. The affected framework component likely manages core system configuration parameters that control device behavior, user preferences, and operational settings. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can leverage the incorrect default permissions to modify critical configuration elements without proper authorization, potentially compromising device integrity and user data confidentiality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a failure in the access control mechanism that governs how different system components interact with configuration data. When the Framework for Galaxy Watch initializes, it assigns default permissions that do not properly restrict access to configuration management functions. This misconfiguration creates a path for local privilege escalation where malicious applications or processes can bypass normal security boundaries. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which describes improper default permissions, and represents a classic example of insufficient access control implementation. Attackers can exploit this weakness through local execution of malicious code that leverages the overly permissive default settings to reset or modify device configurations. The attack vector typically involves a local process that has some level of access to the system but should not be permitted to modify core configuration parameters. This flaw demonstrates poor security by design principles where the system does not properly enforce the principle of least privilege during initialization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple configuration modification, as it can potentially compromise the overall security posture of the Galaxy Watch device. Local attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can reset configuration settings that may include security policies, network configurations, or user preferences that affect device functionality. The ability to reset configurations can disrupt device operation, potentially leading to denial of service conditions or the disabling of security features. In a broader context, this vulnerability can undermine user trust in the device's security capabilities and may enable more sophisticated attacks if the configuration resets affect security-related parameters. The impact is particularly concerning for wearable devices like Galaxy Watch, where users often store sensitive personal and health data. This vulnerability can be leveraged to create persistent security issues that may require complete device reconfiguration or factory resets to resolve. The operational consequences can include unauthorized access to device features, data exposure, or the establishment of persistent backdoors through configuration changes that alter device behavior.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-20997 should prioritize the immediate application of the SMR Jul-2025 Release 1 update, which addresses the incorrect default permissions in the Framework for Galaxy Watch. Organizations and users must ensure that all affected devices receive the security patch as soon as it becomes available. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all devices running affected firmware versions and prioritize remediation efforts. The implementation of additional security controls such as application whitelisting, enhanced monitoring of configuration changes, and regular security audits can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Device hardening procedures should include verification of default permissions and access controls during system initialization to ensure that proper security boundaries are maintained. Network segmentation and access control policies should be reviewed to limit local access to affected devices and reduce the attack surface. Security awareness training for users should emphasize the importance of keeping devices updated and recognizing potential signs of configuration manipulation. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability relates to T1547.001 for registry run keys and T1068 for local privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for defensive security operations. The vulnerability also intersects with T1490 for energy manipulation and T1070 for indicator removal, as attackers may attempt to cover their tracks after exploiting the configuration reset capability.