CVE-2025-20776 is a security vulnerability classified as an out-of-bounds read (CWE-125) found in the display component of a wide range of MediaTek System on Chips (SoCs), including models MT6739 through MT8883. These SoCs are integrated into many Android devices running versions 14.0, 15.0, and 16.0. The vulnerability arises from a missing bounds check in the display driver code, which can cause the system to read memory outside the intended buffer limits. This flaw can be exploited by an attacker who already has System-level privileges on the device to escalate their privileges further, potentially gaining more control over the device's operating environment. Notably, exploitation does not require any user interaction, which increases the risk profile in environments where attackers have already compromised lower privilege levels. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability's presence in widely deployed chipsets makes it a significant concern. The issue was reserved in November 2024 and published in December 2025, with MediaTek acknowledging the problem and issuing a patch (ALPS10184297). The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity by enabling unauthorized privilege escalation, which could lead to further compromise of sensitive data or system stability. The broad range of affected chipsets indicates a large attack surface, especially in mobile devices prevalent in consumer and enterprise environments. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an assessment based on the vulnerability's characteristics, including its local exploitation requirement, absence of user interaction, and potential for privilege escalation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20776 can be significant, particularly for those relying on Android devices powered by the affected MediaTek chipsets. The vulnerability allows local privilege escalation from System-level access, which could be leveraged by attackers who have already compromised a device to gain deeper control, potentially accessing sensitive corporate data or bypassing security controls. This is especially critical for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where mobile device security is paramount. The absence of required user interaction means that once initial access is obtained, attackers can escalate privileges stealthily, increasing the risk of persistent threats and data breaches. Additionally, organizations with bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies or mobile workforce deployments may face increased exposure if devices are not patched promptly. The vulnerability could also affect mobile device management (MDM) solutions that rely on these chipsets, potentially undermining endpoint security strategies. Overall, the threat could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of mobile endpoints, impacting business operations and regulatory compliance within the European Union and broader region.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20776, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Deploy the official MediaTek patch (ALPS10184297) as soon as it becomes available for affected devices to eliminate the out-of-bounds read vulnerability. 2) Implement strict access controls to limit System-level privileges only to trusted processes and users, reducing the risk of privilege escalation exploitation. 3) Conduct thorough inventory and asset management to identify devices using the affected MediaTek chipsets and Android versions 14.0 to 16.0. 4) Enforce mobile device security policies that include regular patching, use of endpoint protection, and monitoring for unusual privilege escalations or anomalous behavior. 5) For organizations with BYOD policies, require compliance checks and patch verification before granting network access. 6) Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or similar technologies on critical mobile applications to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. 7) Educate security teams on the specifics of this vulnerability to enhance incident detection and response capabilities. 8) Collaborate with device manufacturers and mobile carriers to ensure timely updates and awareness. These measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on privilege management, patch prioritization, and device-specific controls tailored to the MediaTek chipset ecosystem.