All Pixel device owners receive a severe security alert from Google
A critical security vulnerability, CVE-2025-48530, has been discovered in the Android System of Android 16. This vulnerability, if exploited, could lead to remote code execution (RCE) without requiring any user interaction or additional execution privileges[1][2][4][5].
The flaw is of a similar severity and exploitability to "zero-click" attacks, as it does not require any action from the user[2][4]. However, the RCE impact requires the presence of other system vulnerabilities alongside CVE-2025-48530, indicating a chained exploit scenario where multiple flaws are leveraged together[1][5].
Attackers can use this vulnerability to run code remotely without the victim needing to tap, install apps, or even have the device physically accessed. This makes it a serious threat, as devices can be compromised silently and remotely[1][2][4][5].
Google has acknowledged the severity of the vulnerability and has prioritised its patching. The August 2025 Android security updates address this vulnerability alongside other critical and high-severity issues[1][5].
It is important to note that this vulnerability only affects devices running Android 16 and not Samsung phones[1][5]. Forbes has issued a warning for owners of smartphones, including Samsung, to check their monthly security bulletins for the fixes, timing, and model eligibility[6].
Google's Pixel phones are the first to receive the new software update, with the update for Pixels expected to roll out within days[7]. Samsung's own August monthly security release has also been issued[8].
However, Android's leading OEM, still subject to a patchwork quilt of updates by region, model, and carrier, lacks "seamless" updates across almost all devices[9]. Adam Boynton of Jamf has emphasised the importance of the patched issues, especially CVE‐2025‐48530[10].
Users can check if their Pixel device has the latest security updates installed. Google has confirmed a "critical security vulnerability" in August that opens Android 16 phones to remote attacks[1][11]. Boynton specifically notes CVE‐2025‐48530 as a system-level vulnerability allowing remote code execution without user interaction or elevated execution rights[10].
Forbes did not issue a warning against scanning QR codes on Samsung phones in this paragraph. However, Forbes has issued a warning not to scan certain QR codes on smartphones due to potential security risks[12]. The August's Android Security Bulletin has a lower volume of issues compared to earlier this year[13].
References:
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- Due to the critical security vulnerability, CVE-2025-48530, discovered in Android 16, it's crucial for users to keep an eye on upcoming pixel upgrade or pixel update, as Google's Pixel phones are the first devices to receive the patch for this issue.
- Cybersecurity teams should also consider data-and-cloud-computing risks when comparing technology like pixel vs samsung or android vs iPhone, as remote code execution vulnerabilities can potentially expose sensitive user information.
