CVE-2025-20710 is a security vulnerability classified under CWE-190 (Integer Overflow) affecting multiple MediaTek wireless chipset models including MT6890, MT7915, MT7916, MT7981, and MT7986. The flaw exists in the WLAN Access Point (AP) driver, where an integer overflow leads to an out-of-bounds write condition. This memory corruption can be triggered remotely by an attacker in close proximity to the vulnerable device, enabling escalation of privileges without requiring any prior execution privileges or user interaction. The affected software versions include SDK release 7.6.7.2 and earlier, as well as OpenWrt versions 19.07 and 21.02 for MT6890-based devices. The vulnerability could allow an attacker to compromise the integrity of the device’s firmware or operating system, potentially leading to unauthorized control over the device or disruption of wireless services. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the nature of the vulnerability suggests it could be weaponized in targeted attacks against wireless infrastructure. The issue was reserved in November 2024 and published in October 2025, with MediaTek acknowledging the problem but no patch links currently available. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for embedded and IoT devices that rely on these chipsets for wireless connectivity, as it could serve as a foothold for lateral movement within networks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20710 could be significant, especially for those relying on MediaTek-based wireless access points or embedded devices in their network infrastructure. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, allowing attackers to manipulate device configurations, intercept or disrupt wireless communications, or use compromised devices as pivot points for further network intrusion. This could affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of network services. Critical infrastructure, enterprises, and service providers using these chipsets may face operational disruptions or data breaches. Since the vulnerability does not require user interaction and can be exploited remotely within wireless range, it increases the risk profile for organizations with dense wireless deployments. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the potential for rapid weaponization remains high.

Organizations should monitor MediaTek’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-20710 and apply them promptly once available. In the interim, network administrators should restrict physical and wireless access to vulnerable devices by implementing strong wireless security controls such as WPA3, disabling unnecessary wireless services, and segmenting wireless networks to limit exposure. Employing wireless intrusion detection/prevention systems (WIDS/WIPS) can help detect anomalous activity indicative of exploitation attempts. Regularly updating OpenWrt or other firmware to the latest supported versions can reduce risk. For critical deployments, consider replacing or isolating devices using affected chipsets until patches are confirmed. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough audits of wireless infrastructure to identify all devices running vulnerable firmware versions and maintain strict access controls to prevent unauthorized proximity-based attacks.