Your Android device’s security is more important than ever. This August 2025, Google released its latest security update addressing six critical vulnerabilities — including two severe flaws in Qualcomm chips that were already being actively exploited in targeted attacks.
At TecnetOne, we want you to understand the details of these vulnerabilities, why they pose a real risk, and what you must do to keep your device protected.
The Source of the Problem: Qualcomm Flaws
The two most severe vulnerabilities have been cataloged as CVE-2025-21479 and CVE-2025-27038, both reported through the Android Security Team in January of this year.
- CVE-2025-21479 (CVSS 8.6): An improper authorization vulnerability in the graphics component. It allows unauthorized commands to execute within GPU microcode, leading to potential memory corruption.
- CVE-2025-27038 (CVSS 7.5): A use-after-free error causing memory corruption when rendering graphics using Adreno GPU drivers in Chrome.
Both flaws open the door to highly sophisticated attacks, allowing attackers to manipulate device memory and execute potentially malicious code without your consent.
How the Vulnerabilities Were Detected
In June, Qualcomm warned of signs of active exploitation, according to Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG). At that time, the company released initial patches for device manufacturers (OEMs), strongly recommending immediate installation.
However, because many manufacturers are slow to adapt updates, millions of Android devices remained exposed until Google’s official patch.
On June 3, the U.S. CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) added these vulnerabilities to its catalog of actively exploited flaws, requiring federal agencies to secure their devices no later than June 24.
Read more: What is a security patch?
What Else the August 2025 Patch Includes
In addition to the Qualcomm vulnerabilities, Google also fixed:
- Two privilege escalation flaws in Android Framework: CVE-2025-22441 and CVE-2025-48533
- A critical flaw in the System component (CVE-2025-48530) allowing remote code execution when combined with other vulnerabilities — without additional privileges or user interaction
The patches were released in two update levels:
- 2025-08-01: addressing the most urgent flaws
- 2025-08-05: including all previous fixes, plus patches for third-party and closed-source components from providers like Arm and Qualcomm
Why This Directly Affects You
You might think these vulnerabilities are too technical or only affect large companies. But the truth is: any Android user could be at risk.
If your device uses a Qualcomm chip (as most mid- and high-end Android phones do), attackers could:
- Access your personal data: photos, messages, passwords
- Take full control of your device: install malware, spy on your activities
- Use your phone to launch attacks against other victims — without you noticing
At TecnetOne, we often see that the most effective attacks exploit known vulnerabilities left unpatched.
The Problem with Android Updates
If you own a Google Pixel device, you’ll likely receive these updates immediately. But many other manufacturers take longer to adapt patches to their hardware and software configurations.
That delay creates a vulnerability window that attackers exploit. That’s why it’s critical to:
- Manually check for available updates on your device
- Never ignore update notifications
- Regularly verify your security patch level under Settings > About Device
Recent Cases Confirming the Risk
This is not the first time Android has faced zero-day exploitation:
- In March 2025, Google patched two vulnerabilities exploited by authorities in Serbia to unlock confiscated Android devices.
- In November 2024, another zero-day (CVE-2024-43047) was used in the NoviSpy spyware campaign, also linked to Serbia.
These examples prove these flaws are not theoretical — they are actively used for espionage, data theft, and device control.
Also of interest: New TapTrap Attack Deceives Android Users
How to Protect Your Device
As cybersecurity experts, we recommend these practical measures:
Update immediately
Go to Settings > System > Software Update and install the August 2025 patch.
Verify your security level
Ensure your device shows the 2025-08-05 patch level for complete coverage.
Avoid apps outside official stores
Malware often disguises itself as legitimate apps. Always download from Google Play.
Strengthen your security with advanced solutions
Mobile antivirus or EDR can detect suspicious behavior even when the system does not.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Even if your password is stolen, MFA makes unauthorized access much harder.
Stay informed
Subscribe to reliable security bulletins (like TecnetBlog) or trust partners such as TecnetOne for updates on critical vulnerabilities and mitigations.
The Importance of Prevention
The most worrying aspect is that these vulnerabilities were already being exploited in targeted attacks before Google’s patch. This proves cybercriminals are always one step ahead.
The only way to protect yourself is to act quickly: update your devices as soon as patches are available and rely on additional defenses to stop unknown threats.
At TecnetOne, we know your mobile devices are now at the center of your personal and professional life. Losing control over them is not an option.
Conclusion: Don’t Leave Your Android Vulnerable
The Qualcomm flaws in Android are further proof of how fragile security can be if timely measures are not taken. With the August 2025 update, you have the chance to close doors that attackers are already using.
At TecnetOne, we can help you:
- Review the security status of your Android devices
- Deploy advanced mobile protection solutions
- Train your team on best practices to avoid falling victim to increasingly sophisticated attacks
Don’t wait until your data is at risk: update your device today and strengthen your security with our support.
