CVE-2025-48618 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 12/08/2025
In processLaunchBrowser of CommandParamsFactory.java, there is a possible browser interaction from the lockscreen due to improper locking. This could lead to physical 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-2025-48618 resides within the processLaunchBrowser method of the CommandParamsFactory.java file, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of device lockscreen protections. This issue stems from inadequate implementation of access controls during browser launch operations, creating a pathway for unauthorized interaction with system components while the device remains secured. The flaw manifests when the system fails to properly enforce lockscreen boundaries during browser initiation processes, allowing malicious actors to potentially exploit this weakness without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a failure in the security model that governs how browser launch commands are processed when the device is locked. When the processLaunchBrowser function executes, it does not adequately verify the security context or enforce proper access controls that should prevent unauthorized interaction with browser functionality from the lockscreen state. This represents a direct violation of security principle enforcement and proper privilege management. The vulnerability can be classified under CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically related to insufficient access control enforcement during system operations. The flaw demonstrates a critical gap in the security architecture where the lockscreen protection mechanism fails to properly isolate browser launch operations from unauthorized access.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables physical escalation of privilege without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical access to devices is possible. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it does not require user engagement or elevated privileges to exploit, meaning that an attacker with physical access to a locked device could potentially gain unauthorized access to browser functionalities that should be restricted. This could lead to unauthorized data access, session hijacking, or other malicious activities that compromise device security and user privacy. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through exploitation of system-level access controls, where the attacker can leverage the improper lockscreen protection to escalate their privileges.
The implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple access control bypass, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive information, manipulate browser sessions, or perform unauthorized actions that should be restricted to authenticated users. The lack of user interaction requirement makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited automatically when a device is locked, without any warning or indication to the user. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability as a critical threat that requires immediate attention, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in the device's security model. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that this vulnerability can be exploited from the lockscreen context, where users typically expect enhanced security protections to be enforced.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper access controls within the CommandParamsFactory.java file, ensuring that browser launch operations are properly validated against the current security context. The system should enforce strict lockscreen boundary checks before allowing any browser interaction, particularly when the device is in a locked state. Security patches should include comprehensive access control validation mechanisms that verify the appropriate security context before permitting browser launch operations. Organizations should implement immediate security updates to address this vulnerability, as the lack of user interaction requirement makes it particularly susceptible to exploitation in real-world scenarios. The remediation approach should involve strengthening the security model to prevent unauthorized access to browser functionalities from lockscreen contexts, aligning with industry best practices for secure system design and implementation.