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Google has rolled out its latest Android security update for April 2025, addressing a total of 62 vulnerabilities, including two significant zero-day exploits that had been actively targeted in recent attacks. This update is divided into two patches: the 2025-04-01 and the 2025-04-05 patch levels, with the latter incorporating additional fixes for third-party closed-source components and kernel subcomponents. While Pixel devices get these patches immediately, other manufacturers require time to test and adjust the fixes to suit their hardware.
the April 2025 Android Security Update
Google’s April 2025 security update focuses on addressing 62 security vulnerabilities in Android, including two zero-days that had been actively exploited. The patches are split into two sets: the 2025-04-01 update and the more comprehensive 2025-04-05 update. The latter includes all fixes from the earlier release, along with additional updates for third-party components and kernel subcomponents, which may not be applicable to all Android devices.
Pixel devices receive these patches directly, but other manufacturers typically need more time to adapt them to their specific hardware configurations. Google had already shared details of the vulnerabilities earlier this year with OEM partners, and the fixes were included in a partner advisory issued on January 18, 2025.
Regarding the zero-day vulnerabilities, the first one, CVE-2024-53197, is a privilege escalation flaw in the Linux kernel’s USB-audio driver for ALSA devices. This vulnerability was reportedly exploited by Serbian authorities as part of a zero-day chain to unlock confiscated Android devices. The second zero-day, CVE-2024-53150, is an information disclosure flaw in the Android Kernel that allowed attackers to access sensitive data on the device without requiring user interaction.
In addition to these, Google had also patched other zero-day vulnerabilities in the months preceding the April 2025 update, including vulnerabilities targeted in attacks by the Serbian government and related to spyware used on Android devices belonging to activists, journalists, and protestors.
What Undercode Says:
Google’s proactive approach in addressing these vulnerabilities is commendable, especially as the company continues to prioritize user security. The inclusion of multiple zero-day fixes in this update highlights the growing importance of kernel-level security in the Android ecosystem. With exploits like CVE-2024-53197 and CVE-2024-53150, it’s evident that attackers are increasingly targeting the very core of Android’s infrastructure, such as the Linux kernel and the Android Kernel, to gain unauthorized access to devices.
The targeted exploitation of these vulnerabilities, particularly in espionage or law enforcement activities, underscores the need for constant vigilance in the mobile device ecosystem. Android’s diverse hardware setup means that different manufacturers will have varying times to roll out these patches, which introduces a gap in device security that bad actors could exploit.
Moreover, the vulnerabilities tied to surveillance activities—such as those linked to Serbian authorities—reveal the complex interplay between security, privacy, and politics. The ability of certain entities to exploit Android’s flaws for surveillance raises important questions about the limits of digital rights, especially when devices used by journalists, activists, or ordinary citizens are vulnerable to targeted attacks.
Android device users should remain vigilant and ensure that their devices are updated as soon as possible. Although Pixel devices are quick to receive updates, users of other brands should be aware of potential delays and seek updates as soon as they become available from their device manufacturer.
Fact Checker Results:
🔍 Google’s patching process is generally swift, with Pixel devices receiving updates immediately.
🔍 The vulnerabilities patched in this update include high-severity flaws actively exploited in the wild.
🔍 The involvement of spyware, including surveillance tools, emphasizes the ongoing risks of targeted attacks.
Prediction:
Given the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks and the growing importance of Android in both personal and professional life, we can expect that Android’s security updates will continue to evolve rapidly. We anticipate that Google will put even more focus on kernel-level security and address vulnerabilities as soon as they are discovered. In the coming months, we may also see more integration of AI-driven security measures to predict and prevent exploits before they are actively used in the wild. As surveillance technology becomes more advanced, the race to secure devices will only intensify, making timely updates even more critical.
References:
Reported By: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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