CVE-2024-20105 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) found in the m4u component of MediaTek chipsets including MT6580, MT6739, MT6761, MT6765, MT6768, MT6779, MT6781, MT6785, MT6789, MT6833, MT6853, MT6855, MT6873, MT6877, MT6879, MT6883, MT6885, MT6889, MT6893, MT6895, MT6983, MT8666, MT8667, MT8673, and MT8768. These chipsets are widely used in Android devices running versions 12.0 through 15.0. The vulnerability stems from a missing bounds check in the m4u module, which manages memory management unit (MMU) operations related to multimedia processing. This flaw allows an attacker who already has System-level privileges on the device to perform an out-of-bounds write, potentially overwriting critical memory regions. Such memory corruption can lead to local privilege escalation, granting the attacker higher privileges or control over the device’s kernel or sensitive components. Exploitation does not require user interaction, increasing the risk once System privileges are obtained. However, initial exploitation requires the attacker to have already compromised the System privilege level, which limits the initial attack surface. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.7 reflects a medium severity rating, with high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, but limited by the requirement for high privileges and local access. MediaTek has acknowledged the issue and assigned patch ID ALPS09062027 to address it. No public exploits have been reported so far, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk if chained with other exploits or used in targeted attacks.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-20105 is local privilege escalation on devices using affected MediaTek chipsets. An attacker who has already gained System-level access can exploit this vulnerability to gain even higher privileges, potentially achieving kernel-level control. This can lead to full device compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, disabling security controls, and disruption of device functionality. The vulnerability affects confidentiality by allowing attackers to access protected information, integrity by enabling modification of system components, and availability by potentially causing system crashes or denial of service. Organizations relying on devices with these chipsets, especially in enterprise or critical infrastructure contexts, face risks of data breaches, espionage, and operational disruption. The lack of required user interaction facilitates stealthy exploitation post initial compromise. Although no exploits are known in the wild, the medium severity and broad chipset coverage necessitate proactive mitigation to prevent exploitation in targeted or chained attack scenarios.

To mitigate CVE-2024-20105, organizations and device manufacturers should promptly apply the official patches provided by MediaTek (patch ID ALPS09062027) as soon as they become available for their devices. Device vendors should ensure timely firmware and OS updates are distributed to end users. Restricting System-level privileges is critical; administrators should enforce the principle of least privilege and harden access controls to prevent unauthorized elevation to System privileges. Employ runtime protections such as memory protection mechanisms (e.g., DEP, ASLR) and integrity monitoring to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. Regularly audit devices for signs of compromise and privilege escalation. For enterprises managing fleets of devices, implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce patch compliance and monitor security posture. Additionally, educating users and administrators about the risks of privilege escalation and securing local access can reduce the likelihood of initial System-level compromise. Finally, coordinate with chipset vendors and OS providers to stay informed about updates and advisories related to this vulnerability.