CVE-2025-20887 identifies an out-of-bounds read vulnerability affecting Samsung's Android operating system. This vulnerability allows local attackers to access arbitrary memory due to improper handling of a table used for svp8t in the libsthmbc.so library. The issue arises in versions prior to the SMR Jan-2025 Release 1, and it necessitates user interaction to trigger the exploit.
Classified with a CVSS score of 5.3, this vulnerability is considered medium severity. The attack vector is local, and it has a high attack complexity, meaning that attackers must have some degree of access to the affected system. The urgency for organizations is moderate, as the vulnerability may lead to significant confidentiality impact, while integrity impact remains none and availability impact is low.
Organizations are encouraged to address this vulnerability during their priority patch cycle. Awareness and understanding of this vulnerability's implications are critical for maintaining security in mobile environments, particularly given the increasing sophistication of local attack vectors.
As of now, there are no known exploits or public proof-of-concept (PoC) code available, but vigilance is necessary. The exploitability score indicates a medium level of risk, making it essential for organizations to monitor their systems closely.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability is described as an out-of-bounds read occurring in the libsthmbc.so library, impacting Samsung's Android platforms. The primary weakness associated with this vulnerability is CWE-125, which pertains to out-of-bounds read vulnerabilities.
The CVSS vector string for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:L/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:L, indicating that the attack requires user interaction and has a high confidentiality impact.
The following products are affected: Samsung Android versions 12.0 and 13.0, along with 14.0, across various SMR releases from December 2021 through September 2024.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is an out-of-bounds read, which allows an attacker to potentially read sensitive memory contents. This can occur due to insufficient validation of the input that accesses the data structure in the libsthmbc.so library.
The attack vector is local, meaning an attacker must have physical access to the device or be able to execute code locally. The complexity of the attack is classified as high, suggesting that the attacker would need to perform specific actions to exploit this vulnerability. No privileges are required to exploit this vulnerability, but user interaction is necessary.
In terms of impact, the vulnerability could compromise confidentiality, but it has no integrity or availability impact. Organizations should take note of the user interaction requirement, as it may limit the attack's feasibility in some environments.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive information stored in memory. The blast radius of this vulnerability can extend to any user who interacts with the affected software. If exploited, it could lead to significant information disclosure, which may result in compliance breaches and reputational damage.
Given the CVSS score of 5.3, organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability during their next patch cycle. The vulnerability’s presence in widely used mobile platforms heightens its risk profile.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of Samsung Android prior to the SMR Jan-2025 Release 1 are affected by this vulnerability. Specific CPEs include Android 12.0 and 13.0 with various SMR releases from 2021 to 2024.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the impact of this vulnerability, organizations should update their devices to the latest SMR release. The vendor has indicated that the patch will be included in future updates, and organizations should implement a routine for monitoring and applying updates to their systems.
In the interim, organizations should consider implementing network controls to limit local access to devices and enhance monitoring for any unusual activity. For further guidance, organizations can refer to the application security assessment resources.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring for signs of exploitation may include reviewing logs for unusual access patterns, especially those requiring user interaction. Organizations should look for behavioral anomalies in mobile applications that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The presence of this vulnerability underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and rapid response capabilities within organizations. As vulnerabilities evolve, so too must the strategies employed to mitigate them.
Security teams should be aware of the potential for similar vulnerabilities and consider conducting regular penetration tests to identify and remediate weaknesses within their systems. For comprehensive guidance, refer to the penetration testing methodology best practices.
Additionally, organizations should implement robust incident response protocols to address any potential compromises. Engaging in red teaming exercises can also aid in identifying gaps in security posture. For detailed insight, organizations can explore our red teaming services offerings.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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