CVE-2026-0038 Privilege escalation in Android

High 8.4 Published Updated

A logic error in Android's mem_protect.c allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code and escalate privileges without user interaction.

Exploited in the wild
Not known
Login needed
Not needed
Attackable
Local or same network only
Victim action needed
Not needed
Fix
Available

What is CVE-2026-0038?

CVE-2026-0038 is a high-severity vulnerability in Google Android, published on 2 Mar 2026. It can only be exploited from the same machine or local network, with no action from the victim.

Official description

In multiple functions of mem_protect.c, there is a possible way to execute arbitrary code due to a logic error in the code. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.

Which versions are affected by CVE-2026-0038?

It affects 1 product.

Products include Google Android.

How do I fix CVE-2026-0038?

Apply the vendor's patch.

Is CVE-2026-0038 being exploited?

There is no known exploitation of CVE-2026-0038 in the wild and no public exploit code.

All Google Android vulnerabilities

Sources

Also known as A-459479964, ASB-A-459479964, GHSA-vfwv-f5wm-rhcv.

Is CVE-2026-0038 in your software?

Upload an SBOM and sbomify checks it against every vulnerability here, every day.

Check your SBOMs for free