CVE-2025-20772 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-415 (Double Free) affecting a wide range of MediaTek chipsets including MT2718, MT6739, MT6761, MT6765, MT6768, MT6781, MT6789, MT6833, MT6835, MT6853, MT6855, MT6877, MT6878, MT6879, MT6883, MT6885, MT6886, MT6889, MT6893, MT6895, MT6897, MT6899, MT6983, MT6985, MT6989, MT6991, MT8196, MT8676, MT8678, MT8792, and MT8793. These chipsets are integrated into devices running Android versions 14.0 through 16.0. The vulnerability arises from a use-after-free condition in the display subsystem, leading to memory corruption. This flaw can be exploited locally by an attacker who already has System-level privileges to escalate their privileges further, potentially gaining higher control over the device. The exploit does not require user interaction, increasing the risk of automated or stealthy attacks once System access is obtained. Although no active exploits have been reported, the broad range of affected chipsets and Android versions implies a significant attack surface. The vulnerability was reserved in November 2024 and published in December 2025, with patches identified by MediaTek (Patch ID: ALPS10196993). The absence of a CVSS score necessitates a severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20772 can be substantial, particularly for those relying on mobile devices powered by affected MediaTek chipsets. The vulnerability allows local privilege escalation from System to potentially higher privileges, which could enable attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or manipulate device functionality. This is especially critical in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure where mobile device security is paramount. The lack of required user interaction facilitates stealthy exploitation in compromised environments. If exploited, attackers could leverage this flaw to implant persistent malware, intercept communications, or disrupt device operations, undermining confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The widespread deployment of these chipsets in consumer and enterprise mobile devices across Europe increases the likelihood of exposure. Additionally, organizations using IoT devices with these chipsets may face operational risks. The vulnerability's exploitation could also aid attackers in lateral movement within networks, escalating the threat beyond individual devices.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20772, European organizations should: 1) Monitor MediaTek and device vendor advisories closely and apply security patches (Patch ID: ALPS10196993) as soon as they become available to affected devices. 2) Implement strict access controls to limit System-level privileges only to trusted processes and users, reducing the risk of initial compromise. 3) Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, control app installations, and monitor device integrity. 4) Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on mobile and IoT devices to detect signs of exploitation or privilege escalation attempts. 5) Educate users and administrators about the risks of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and the importance of timely updates. 6) Where possible, isolate critical mobile devices from sensitive networks or data to limit the impact of a compromised device. 7) Use runtime protection and behavioral monitoring tools on devices to detect anomalous activities indicative of exploitation. 8) Collaborate with supply chain partners to ensure devices are updated and secure before deployment.