CVE-2025-48605 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 03/02/2026
In multiple functions of KeyguardViewMediator.java, there is a possible lockscreen bypass 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 • 03/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-48605 resides within the KeyguardViewMediator.java component of Android's security framework, specifically affecting multiple functions that manage the lockscreen authentication process. This flaw represents a critical logic error that fundamentally undermines the device's security posture by creating an unintended pathway for unauthorized access. The issue manifests in the lockscreen bypass mechanism where the system fails to properly validate authentication states, allowing malicious actors to circumvent the normal security checks that should prevent unauthorized access to the device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables local privilege escalation without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction, making it exceptionally dangerous in practical exploitation scenarios.
The technical flaw stems from improper state management within the KeyguardViewMediator.java file where the logic governing lockscreen authentication transitions contains a critical oversight. This logic error allows the system to transition from a locked state to an unlocked state without proper authentication verification, effectively creating a race condition or state validation gap. The vulnerability operates at the core of Android's security architecture, specifically targeting the mechanisms that control access to device resources and applications when the screen is locked. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in the validation of security state transitions, falling under CWE-284 for improper access control and CWE-362 for concurrent execution using shared resources. The flaw demonstrates a failure in the principle of least privilege where the system does not properly enforce access restrictions during critical security transitions.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-48605 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential full device compromise and data exposure. Since local escalation of privilege is achieved without additional execution privileges, an attacker with minimal access to the device can gain elevated permissions that would normally require proper authentication. This vulnerability directly violates the fundamental security model of mobile operating systems where the lockscreen serves as the primary barrier against unauthorized access to personal data, applications, and device functions. The lack of user interaction requirement makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically without any user awareness or involvement, potentially enabling covert data exfiltration, malicious application installation, or complete device control. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation and T1548.001 for abuse of Windows admin privileges, though the principles apply equally to mobile platforms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-48605 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar logic errors. Device manufacturers should implement immediate patching procedures to correct the state validation logic within KeyguardViewMediator.java, ensuring proper authentication state transitions are enforced. Security architects should conduct comprehensive code reviews focusing on state management patterns and access control mechanisms, particularly in security-critical components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing robust security testing methodologies including formal verification of state transitions and automated static analysis tools to identify similar logic errors. Organizations should also implement monitoring solutions to detect anomalous authentication behavior and ensure proper privilege enforcement mechanisms are in place. Regular security assessments of core system components should be conducted to identify potential state validation gaps that could lead to similar vulnerabilities, with particular attention to components handling user authentication and access control decisions.