CVE-2025-20776 is a vulnerability classified as CWE-125 (Out-of-bounds Read) found in the display subsystem of a broad range of MediaTek System on Chips (SoCs), including MT6739 through MT8883 series. The vulnerability stems from a missing bounds check in the display code, which allows an attacker with System-level privileges to read memory outside the intended buffer boundaries. This out-of-bounds read can lead to local privilege escalation by corrupting or leaking sensitive data, potentially enabling the attacker to gain higher privileges or compromise system integrity. The vulnerability affects devices running Android versions 14.0, 15.0, and 16.0 that incorporate these MediaTek chipsets. Exploitation does not require user interaction but does require the attacker to already have System privileges, which limits the initial attack surface but increases the risk of further system compromise once exploited. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.7, reflecting medium severity with high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, but limited by the requirement for high privileges and local access. No public exploits have been reported yet, and while patches have been issued (Patch ID: ALPS10184297), no direct links are provided. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure bounds checking in low-level hardware interface code, especially in widely deployed mobile SoCs.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20776 can be significant in environments where MediaTek-powered Android devices are used, such as corporate mobile devices, IoT deployments, or embedded systems. An attacker who has already gained System-level access on a vulnerable device could exploit this vulnerability to escalate privileges further, potentially gaining root or kernel-level control. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, disruption of device functionality, or use of compromised devices as footholds within enterprise networks. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected devices are at risk, which could impact business operations, data privacy compliance (e.g., GDPR), and overall security posture. Although exploitation requires prior System privileges, the vulnerability could be chained with other exploits to achieve full device compromise. The widespread use of MediaTek chipsets in consumer and enterprise devices across Europe increases the potential attack surface, especially in sectors relying heavily on mobile technology.

European organizations should implement the following specific mitigations: 1) Promptly apply the official patches from MediaTek or device manufacturers addressing CVE-2025-20776 as soon as they become available. 2) Restrict and monitor System-level access on Android devices to minimize the risk of initial privilege acquisition. 3) Employ mobile device management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies, including restricting installation of untrusted apps and controlling device configurations. 4) Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on mobile fleets to detect signs of privilege escalation or anomalous behavior. 5) Use runtime protection tools or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring low-level system calls and memory access patterns to identify exploitation attempts. 6) Educate users and administrators about the risks of granting elevated privileges and the importance of applying updates. 7) For embedded or IoT devices using affected MediaTek SoCs, coordinate with vendors for firmware updates and consider network segmentation to limit exposure.