CVE-2024-20006 is a vulnerability identified in MediaTek chipsets MT2713, MT6781, MT6880, MT6890, and MT8188T, which are commonly embedded in devices running Android 11, OpenWrt (versions 19.07 and 21.02), and RDK-B 22Q3. The root cause is an out-of-bounds write condition stemming from a missing bounds check in the device's firmware or driver code (noted as CWE-787). This flaw allows a local attacker who already has system execution privileges to escalate their privileges further, potentially gaining full control over the affected device. Notably, exploitation does not require user interaction, increasing the risk in environments where local access is possible. However, the attacker must already have system-level execution privileges, which limits the initial attack vector. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as an attacker could manipulate system processes or data, disrupt device functionality, or install persistent malware. Although no public exploits have been reported, the presence of this vulnerability in widely used chipsets embedded in IoT devices, routers, and consumer electronics presents a significant risk. The vendor has assigned patch ID ALPS08477148 to address the issue, emphasizing the importance of timely updates. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.6 reflects a medium severity rating, considering the attack vector (network), complexity (high), privileges required (high), and no user interaction needed. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for organizations relying on MediaTek-based hardware in their infrastructure or products, especially in telecommunications, IoT, and embedded systems sectors.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-20006 can be substantial, especially those operating in telecommunications, IoT, and embedded device markets where MediaTek chipsets are prevalent. Successful exploitation could allow attackers with existing system-level access to escalate privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise. This could result in unauthorized data access, manipulation of device functions, disruption of services, or the establishment of persistent footholds for further attacks. Critical infrastructure relying on affected devices, such as network routers, gateways, or smart devices, may experience degraded availability or integrity breaches. The lack of required user interaction increases the risk in environments where local access is possible, such as shared facilities or multi-tenant data centers. Although exploitation requires system privileges, attackers who gain initial footholds via other vulnerabilities or insider threats could leverage this flaw to deepen their control. This elevates the risk profile for European enterprises, government agencies, and service providers using MediaTek-powered hardware. The medium severity rating suggests that while the vulnerability is not trivially exploitable remotely, its potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability warrants prompt attention.

To mitigate CVE-2024-20006 effectively, European organizations should: 1) Prioritize applying the vendor-provided patch ALPS08477148 as soon as it becomes available for their affected devices and firmware versions. 2) Conduct thorough inventories of all devices using MediaTek MT2713, MT6781, MT6880, MT6890, and MT8188T chipsets, including embedded systems running Android 11, OpenWrt 19.07/21.02, and RDK-B 22Q3, to identify vulnerable endpoints. 3) Restrict local system-level access strictly, employing role-based access controls and multi-factor authentication to minimize the risk of attackers obtaining the required privileges for exploitation. 4) Monitor logs and system behavior for signs of privilege escalation attempts or anomalous activity indicative of exploitation. 5) Implement network segmentation to isolate critical devices and limit lateral movement opportunities for attackers. 6) Engage in proactive vulnerability management and patching cycles, ensuring firmware and software updates are applied promptly. 7) Collaborate with device vendors and suppliers to confirm patch availability and deployment status. 8) Educate internal teams on the risks associated with local privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce strict endpoint security policies. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, inventory management, and proactive patch deployment tailored to the affected hardware and software environments.