CVE-2022-32607 is a vulnerability identified in multiple MediaTek chipset models used predominantly in mobile devices running Android versions 11.0 and 12.0. The vulnerability arises from a use-after-free condition within the 'aee' component, which is likely part of the Android Exception Engine or a similar subsystem responsible for error handling or system monitoring. This use-after-free occurs due to a missing bounds check, allowing an attacker with local access and system execution privileges to exploit the flaw to elevate their privileges further on the device. The vulnerability does not require user interaction for exploitation, increasing its risk profile in environments where local access is possible. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.7, indicating a medium severity level, with the vector string AV:L/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H showing that the attack requires local access and high privileges but can cause high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The affected MediaTek chipsets cover a broad range of models (MT6580 through MT8891), which are widely used in various smartphones and IoT devices. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-416 (Use After Free), a common memory corruption issue that can lead to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. No known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date, and patches have been issued by MediaTek under patch ID ALPS07202891. However, the lack of user interaction and the potential for system-level privilege escalation make this a significant concern for device security, especially in environments where devices might be physically accessible or compromised by local attackers.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-32607 can be substantial, particularly for those relying on mobile devices or embedded systems powered by the affected MediaTek chipsets. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially gaining full control over the device's operating system. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, interception of communications, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of device availability. Given the widespread use of MediaTek chipsets in cost-effective smartphones and IoT devices, sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, healthcare, and critical infrastructure could be at risk if these devices are part of their operational technology or employee endpoints. The vulnerability's ability to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability simultaneously means that data breaches, espionage, and operational disruptions are plausible outcomes. Moreover, the absence of required user interaction lowers the barrier for exploitation once local access is achieved, increasing the threat in environments where devices may be lost, stolen, or accessed by untrusted personnel.

Apply the official MediaTek patch (ALPS07202891) promptly to all affected devices to remediate the use-after-free vulnerability. Implement strict device management policies to limit local access to devices, including enforcing strong physical security controls and endpoint protection measures. Deploy mobile device management (MDM) solutions that can enforce security policies, monitor device integrity, and push timely security updates. Conduct regular inventory and risk assessments of devices using MediaTek chipsets to identify and prioritize patching efforts. Restrict installation of untrusted applications and enforce application whitelisting to reduce the risk of local privilege escalation exploitation. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local device access and encourage reporting of lost or stolen devices immediately. Where feasible, utilize hardware-based security features such as Trusted Execution Environments (TEE) to isolate critical processes and reduce the impact of privilege escalation. Monitor device logs and behavior for signs of exploitation attempts or unusual privilege escalations.