CVE-2025-48588 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/08/2025
In startAlwaysOnVpn of Vpn.java, there is a possible way to disable always-on VPN due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-48588 resides within the startAlwaysOnVpn method of the Vpn.java file, representing a critical logic flaw that undermines the security posture of Android devices. This issue manifests as a potential local privilege escalation vector that operates without requiring any user interaction or additional execution privileges, making it particularly concerning from a cybersecurity perspective. The flaw specifically targets the always-on VPN functionality which is designed to maintain network connectivity even when the device is in a locked state or when applications are not actively running.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from a fundamental logic error within the VPN management implementation that allows unauthorized code execution to bypass the intended always-on VPN restrictions. This logical inconsistency enables an attacker to manipulate the VPN state in a manner that effectively disables the always-on functionality, thereby compromising the device's network security controls. The vulnerability's classification as a local privilege escalation means that an attacker with minimal initial access can elevate their privileges to gain full control over the device's network security mechanisms.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations relying on always-on VPN configurations for network protection. The absence of user interaction requirements for exploitation means that malicious code could be silently executed in the background, potentially leading to complete network compromise without detection. The impact extends beyond simple network access control as it undermines the fundamental security model that always-on VPNs are designed to provide, creating potential entry points for broader network attacks and data exfiltration scenarios.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues, and represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege in mobile security contexts. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this weakness maps to privilege escalation techniques and potentially to initial access vectors through malicious app installation or exploitation of existing applications. Organizations should consider implementing comprehensive monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized VPN state changes and establish strict application vetting processes to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. The recommended mitigations include immediate patching of affected systems, implementation of network segmentation strategies, and enhanced security monitoring focused on VPN state changes to detect potential exploitation attempts.