CVE-2025-48554 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 09/04/2025
In handlePackagesChanged of DevicePolicyManagerService.java, there is a possible persistent denial of service due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local denial of service with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-48554 resides within the DevicePolicyManagerService.java component of Android's system architecture, specifically within the handlePackagesChanged method. This flaw represents a persistent denial of service condition that stems from a fundamental logic error in the code implementation. The vulnerability operates at a system level where device policy management services interact with package changes, creating a scenario where normal system operations can be disrupted through carefully crafted package modifications. The logical error manifests when the system attempts to process package changes while maintaining device policy enforcement, leading to a condition where the service becomes unresponsive or crashes repeatedly.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires a user interaction component, meaning that an attacker must initiate some form of package change operation for the flaw to manifest. This typically involves installing or updating applications that trigger the package change handling mechanism within the DevicePolicyManagerService. The logic error occurs during the processing of these package changes, where the system fails to properly handle certain edge cases or state transitions that occur when device policies are being enforced alongside package modifications. The vulnerability's persistence stems from the fact that once triggered, the service may remain in a corrupted state or continuously loop in an error condition that prevents normal device operation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant disruption to device functionality as the DevicePolicyManagerService is fundamental to Android's security framework. The service manages device policies including restrictions on applications, encryption requirements, and administrative controls that are essential for device security and management. When this service becomes unresponsive or crashes, it can lead to complete denial of service where the device cannot properly enforce security policies, manage applications, or maintain its operational state. The impact extends beyond simple service interruption as it affects the core security posture of the device, potentially leaving it vulnerable to other attacks or preventing proper security enforcement mechanisms from functioning.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-835, which addresses the issue of infinite loops in software, and represents a classic example of a logic error that can lead to service exhaustion. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability could be categorized under T1499.004 for Network Denial of Service and potentially T1566.001 for Phishing, as exploitation requires user interaction to initiate the triggering condition. The lack of additional execution privileges needed for exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it can be leveraged by attackers with minimal privileges. The vulnerability's classification as a local denial of service means that it can be exploited without requiring network access or remote code execution capabilities, making it a significant concern for device security.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and state management within the handlePackagesChanged method to prevent the logic error from causing service disruption. System administrators and device manufacturers should prioritize applying security patches that address the root cause of the logic error in the DevicePolicyManagerService implementation. Additionally, implementing monitoring mechanisms to detect service instability and automatic recovery procedures can help minimize the impact of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough testing of device policy management components during package change operations and emphasizes the need for robust error handling in system-level services that are critical to device functionality and security enforcement.