CVE-2025-48650 Overview
CVE-2025-48650 is a SQL injection vulnerability affecting Google Android versions 14, 15, and 16. The flaw exists in multiple locations within the operating system and can lead to information disclosure. Successful exploitation enables local escalation of privilege without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. The weakness is classified under CWE-89, Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command.
Critical Impact
A local attacker can extract sensitive data from Android system databases and escalate privileges without user interaction, compromising confidentiality, integrity, and availability on affected devices.
Affected Products
- Google Android 14.0
- Google Android 15.0
- Google Android 16.0
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-03-01 - Google publishes the Android Security Bulletin addressing the issue
- 2026-03-02 - CVE-2025-48650 published to the National Vulnerability Database (NVD)
- 2026-03-06 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-48650
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability is a SQL injection flaw present in multiple locations across the Android platform. Improperly sanitized input reaches SQL query construction logic, allowing crafted values to alter the intended query structure. An attacker with local access can query data that would normally be restricted by Android's permission model. The resulting information disclosure provides a path to local privilege escalation by exposing data such as protected database records or credentials handled by privileged components.
Root Cause
The root cause is improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands [CWE-89]. Affected code paths concatenate untrusted input into SQL statements rather than using parameterized queries or strict input validation. Google's Android Security Bulletin for March 2026 indicates the defect exists in multiple locations, suggesting a recurring coding pattern across system components rather than a single isolated function.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is local. An attacker requires the ability to execute code on the device, typically through an installed application running with standard privileges. No user interaction is required. The malicious application can issue crafted inputs to vulnerable content providers or system services that build SQL queries, retrieving data outside the calling app's permission scope. Recovered information enables further escalation, including access to other applications' private data or privileged system records.
No verified public proof-of-concept is available at the time of writing. Refer to the Android Security Bulletin March 2026 for component-level technical details.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-48650
Indicators of Compromise
- Installed applications issuing unexpected queries to system content providers or privileged databases.
- Anomalous SQL syntax patterns such as UNION SELECT, single-quote escapes, or comment sequences in logged provider URIs and selection arguments.
- Applications accessing data fields outside their declared permission scope.
Detection Strategies
- Monitor Android logcat and audit logs for malformed selection clauses passed to ContentResolver.query() calls.
- Inspect installed applications for unusual content provider access patterns targeting system packages.
- Correlate process-level telemetry with database access events to identify privilege boundary violations.
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enroll Android endpoints in a mobile threat defense solution capable of flagging applications that exhibit content provider abuse.
- Forward device telemetry into a centralized SIEM or data lake for behavioral correlation across the fleet.
- Track installation of sideloaded applications and unsigned packages on managed devices.
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-48650
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the March 2026 Android security patch level or later to all Android 14, 15, and 16 devices.
- Audit installed applications and remove unverified or sideloaded packages that request broad content provider access.
- Enforce mobile device management (MDM) policies requiring current patch levels before granting access to corporate resources.
Patch Information
Google released fixes in the March 2026 Android Security Bulletin. Devices running Android 14.0, 15.0, and 16.0 should be updated to the security patch level dated 2026-03-01 or later. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) distribute the patch on their own schedules, so confirm the patch level under Settings > About phone > Android security update. See the Android Security Bulletin March 2026 for the authoritative fix list.
Workarounds
- Restrict application installation to vetted sources such as Google Play and managed enterprise stores.
- Use MDM compliance rules to block devices that have not received the March 2026 or later patch level.
- Limit deployment of applications that require access to sensitive content providers until devices are patched.
# Verify Android security patch level via adb
adb shell getprop ro.build.version.security_patch
# Expected output: 2026-03-01 or later
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
