CVE-2024-20012 is a vulnerability identified in multiple MediaTek SoCs (System on Chips) including models MT6580 through MT8798, which are widely used in Android devices running versions 12.0 and 13.0. The flaw exists in the keyInstall component, where a type confusion issue allows an attacker with local access and system execution privileges to escalate their privileges further. Type confusion vulnerabilities occur when a program mistakenly treats a piece of memory as a different type than intended, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or privilege escalation. In this case, the vulnerability allows an attacker who already has some level of system execution privileges to elevate those privileges to a higher level, potentially gaining full control over the device. Exploitation does not require user interaction, increasing the risk of automated or stealthy attacks. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.7, indicating a medium severity level, with the vector showing that the attack requires local access (AV:L), low complexity (AC:L), high privileges (PR:H), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (all high). No known exploits are currently in the wild, and a patch has been identified (ALPS08358566), though no direct patch links are provided. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-843 (Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type or Object Reference), emphasizing the type confusion root cause. This vulnerability is significant because MediaTek chips are prevalent in many budget and mid-range Android smartphones, making a large number of devices potentially vulnerable if unpatched.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability could be substantial, especially for those relying on mobile devices with MediaTek chipsets for business operations, secure communications, or mobile workforce management. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could gain elevated privileges on affected devices, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, interception of communications, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of device functionality. Given the lack of user interaction required, exploitation could occur silently, increasing the risk of espionage or data breaches. This is particularly concerning for sectors with high security requirements such as finance, government, healthcare, and critical infrastructure. Additionally, the widespread use of MediaTek chips in consumer devices means that employees’ personal devices could also be compromised, potentially serving as a vector for lateral movement into corporate networks. The medium CVSS score reflects the need for vigilance but also indicates that exploitation requires local access and existing high privileges, somewhat limiting the attack surface to insiders or attackers who have already compromised the device to some extent.

To mitigate this vulnerability effectively, European organizations should: 1) Prioritize patch management by ensuring that all devices using affected MediaTek chipsets and running Android 12 or 13 receive the official security update identified as ALPS08358566 as soon as it becomes available. 2) Implement strict device usage policies that limit local access to devices, including enforcing strong authentication and physical security controls to reduce the risk of local exploitation. 3) Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to monitor device integrity, detect unusual privilege escalations, and enforce security policies remotely. 4) Educate users about the risks of installing untrusted applications or granting elevated permissions, as initial system execution privileges are required for exploitation. 5) For high-security environments, consider network segmentation and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions that can identify anomalous behavior indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 6) Collaborate with device vendors and carriers to ensure timely distribution and installation of patches. 7) Regularly audit and inventory devices to identify those with vulnerable MediaTek chipsets to prioritize remediation efforts.