CVE-2025-48593 Overview
CVE-2025-48593 is a use after free vulnerability in the Android Bluetooth stack, specifically in the bta_hf_client_cb_init function within bta_hf_client_main.cc. This memory corruption flaw enables remote code execution over adjacent networks without requiring user interaction or additional execution privileges. The vulnerability affects the Hands-Free Profile (HFP) client implementation in Android's Bluetooth module.
Critical Impact
This vulnerability allows attackers within Bluetooth range to achieve remote code execution on vulnerable Android devices without any user interaction, potentially leading to complete device compromise.
Affected Products
- Google Android 13.0
- Google Android 14.0
- Google Android 15.0
- Google Android 16.0
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-11-18 - CVE-2025-48593 published to NVD
- 2025-11-19 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-48593
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability resides in the Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile client initialization code within bta_hf_client_main.cc. A use after free condition occurs during the callback initialization process in bta_hf_client_cb_init, where memory is accessed after it has been deallocated. This type of memory corruption vulnerability is particularly dangerous in the context of Bluetooth communications, as it can be triggered by a malicious device within adjacent network range.
The flaw requires no user interaction to exploit, meaning a vulnerable device simply needs to have Bluetooth enabled and be within range of an attacker-controlled device. Successful exploitation grants the attacker code execution capabilities with the privileges of the Bluetooth process, which on Android systems has significant access to device functionality.
Root Cause
The root cause is a use after free (CWE-416) condition in the bta_hf_client_cb_init function. During the Hands-Free Profile client initialization, a memory object is freed but subsequent code paths continue to reference the deallocated memory region. When this dangling pointer is dereferenced, it can lead to arbitrary code execution if an attacker can control the contents of the freed memory location.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is adjacent network (Bluetooth range), requiring the attacker to be in physical proximity to the target device. The attack can be executed with low complexity and requires low privileges on the attacker's side. Key characteristics of the attack include:
The exploitation path involves a malicious Bluetooth device initiating a Hands-Free Profile connection with the target Android device. During the connection handling process, the vulnerable code path in bta_hf_client_cb_init can be triggered, leading to the use after free condition. An attacker who carefully crafts the Bluetooth communication can manipulate memory allocation patterns to place controlled data in the freed memory region, ultimately redirecting execution flow to achieve code execution.
Since no user interaction is required, the attack can be performed against any Android device with Bluetooth enabled, making it particularly concerning for devices in public spaces or enterprise environments.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-48593
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected Bluetooth connection attempts from unknown or spoofed devices
- Bluetooth service crashes or restarts on Android devices
- Anomalous memory allocation patterns in the Bluetooth process
- Unusual process behavior following Bluetooth HFP connection attempts
Detection Strategies
- Monitor Android system logs for Bluetooth service crashes or ANR (Application Not Responding) events related to Bluetooth components
- Implement network-level Bluetooth traffic monitoring to detect malformed HFP packets
- Deploy endpoint detection solutions capable of identifying use after free exploitation patterns
- Review device logs for unexpected Bluetooth pairing or connection events
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable verbose logging for Bluetooth services on critical Android devices in managed environments
- Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to monitor device health and detect anomalous behavior
- Configure SentinelOne Mobile Threat Defense to monitor for exploitation attempts and abnormal process behavior
- Establish baseline Bluetooth connection patterns and alert on deviations
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-48593
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the November 2025 Android security patch immediately on all affected devices
- Disable Bluetooth on devices that cannot be immediately patched, especially in high-risk environments
- Implement network segmentation to limit Bluetooth-accessible areas in sensitive facilities
- Enable automatic security updates on all Android devices in the organization
Patch Information
Google has released security patches addressing this vulnerability as part of the Android Security Bulletin November 2025. The fix involves two commits to the Bluetooth module:
Organizations should ensure all Android devices running versions 13.0 through 16.0 are updated to the November 2025 security patch level or later.
Workarounds
- Disable Bluetooth functionality on devices where patching is not immediately possible
- Implement Bluetooth connection policies to only allow known/trusted devices
- Enable Bluetooth only when actively needed and disable it in public or untrusted environments
- Consider using MDM solutions to enforce Bluetooth policies across enterprise device fleets
# Android ADB commands for Bluetooth management
# Disable Bluetooth via ADB (requires root or debug access)
adb shell settings put global bluetooth_on 0
adb shell svc bluetooth disable
# Check current Bluetooth state
adb shell settings get global bluetooth_on
# Verify Android security patch level
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patch
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
