CVE-2024-20079 is a critical security vulnerability classified as CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) affecting the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) service in numerous MediaTek System-on-Chip (SoC) models, including MT6761, MT6765, MT6768, MT6781, MT6785, MT6789, MT6833, MT6853, MT6853T, MT6855, MT6873, MT6875, MT6877, MT6879, MT6883, MT6885, MT6886, MT6889, MT6891, MT6893, MT6895, MT6983, MT6985, MT6989, MT8666, MT8667, MT8673, MT8676, and MT8678. These chipsets are integrated into many Android devices running versions 13.0 and 14.0. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the GNSS service, which allows an attacker to perform an out-of-bounds write operation. This memory corruption flaw can be exploited locally without requiring any privileges or user interaction, enabling an attacker to escalate privileges to system level and execute arbitrary code with high privileges. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.8, reflecting its critical severity and the potential for complete system compromise. While no public exploits have been reported yet, the broad range of affected devices and the severity of the flaw make it a significant security concern. The issue was assigned ID MSV-1491 and patch ID ALPS08044040 by MediaTek, though no direct patch links were provided in the source. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as an attacker could gain control over the device, access sensitive data, or disrupt device operations.

The impact of CVE-2024-20079 is substantial for organizations and individuals using devices powered by the affected MediaTek chipsets. Exploitation allows local attackers to escalate privileges to system level without user interaction, potentially leading to full device compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive information, installation of persistent malware, disruption of device functionality, and use of the device as a pivot point for further network attacks. Enterprises relying on mobile devices for sensitive communications or operations face risks of data breaches and operational disruptions. The vulnerability also threatens consumer privacy and device integrity on a large scale due to the widespread deployment of MediaTek SoCs in mid-range and budget smartphones globally. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but the ease of exploitation and critical severity score indicate a high likelihood of future attacks once exploit code becomes available.

Organizations and users should prioritize applying official security patches from device manufacturers or MediaTek as soon as they become available. Since no direct patch links are provided, monitoring vendor advisories and Android security bulletins is essential. Until patches are deployed, restricting local access to devices and limiting installation of untrusted applications can reduce exploitation risk. Employing mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies and monitor device behavior can help detect suspicious activities. Developers should audit GNSS-related input handling in custom firmware or software layers to ensure proper bounds checking. Additionally, users should avoid rooting devices or installing unauthorized software that could facilitate local exploitation. Network segmentation and endpoint protection can limit the impact if a device is compromised. Regular backups and incident response plans should be in place to recover from potential breaches.