CVE-2025-20697 is a security vulnerability identified in multiple MediaTek System on Chips (SoCs), including models MT2718, MT6761, MT6765, MT6768, MT6853, MT6855, MT6877, MT6878, MT6879, MT6883, MT6885, MT6889, MT6893, MT6897, MT6989, MT6991, MT8186, MT8196, MT8391, MT8678, MT8775, MT8786, MT8788E, MT8792, MT8796, MT8873, MT8883, and MT8893. The vulnerability is categorized as CWE-787, an out-of-bounds write, occurring within the Power Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL) component of these SoCs. Specifically, the issue arises due to a missing bounds check, which allows a write operation beyond the intended memory buffer limits. This flaw can lead to memory corruption, potentially enabling an attacker to escalate privileges locally on the device. Exploitation requires that the attacker already has System-level privileges, but crucially, no user interaction is needed to trigger the vulnerability. The affected software versions include Android 14.0 and 15.0 running on these MediaTek platforms. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's presence in a critical low-level component like Power HAL makes it a significant risk. The absence of a CVSS score means severity must be assessed based on the technical details: the vulnerability impacts integrity and potentially availability by corrupting memory, is exploitable without user interaction but requires prior System privileges, and affects a broad range of MediaTek SoCs widely used in mobile devices. A patch has been identified (ALPS09915681), but no direct patch links are provided in the data.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20697 is primarily relevant to enterprises and governmental bodies that rely on mobile devices powered by the affected MediaTek SoCs running Android 14 or 15. The vulnerability enables local privilege escalation, which could allow attackers who have already compromised a device at the System level to gain even higher privileges, potentially leading to full device compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive data, or disruption of device functionality. This risk is heightened in environments where devices are used to access corporate networks, handle confidential communications, or manage critical infrastructure. The lack of required user interaction facilitates stealthy exploitation, increasing the threat to managed devices. Although exploitation requires System privileges, this vulnerability could be chained with other exploits to achieve full control. Given the widespread use of MediaTek chips in mid-range and budget smartphones popular in Europe, the vulnerability could affect a significant number of devices used by employees, contractors, or officials, thereby increasing the attack surface. Additionally, compromised devices could be leveraged as entry points for lateral movement within organizational networks, posing risks to data confidentiality and operational integrity.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20697 effectively, European organizations should adopt a multi-layered approach beyond generic patching advice. First, ensure that all devices using affected MediaTek SoCs are updated promptly with vendor-supplied patches or firmware updates as soon as they become available. Engage with device manufacturers and mobile service providers to confirm patch deployment timelines and verify update integrity. Implement strict device management policies that limit the installation of untrusted applications and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the likelihood of initial System-level compromise. Employ mobile threat defense (MTD) solutions capable of detecting anomalous behaviors indicative of privilege escalation attempts. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on mobile endpoints to identify potential exploitation chains involving this vulnerability. For high-security environments, consider isolating or restricting the use of devices with affected hardware until patches are confirmed applied. Additionally, educate users and administrators about the risks of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining updated devices. Finally, monitor threat intelligence feeds for any emerging exploit developments related to this CVE to adapt defenses proactively.