CVE-2025-20778 is a security vulnerability classified under CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) found in the display component of a wide range of MediaTek System on Chips (SoCs), including MT6739 through MT8883 series. The vulnerability stems from a missing bounds check in the display driver code, which allows an attacker with System-level privileges to perform an out-of-bounds write operation. This flaw can lead to local privilege escalation, enabling the attacker to gain higher-level control over the device. 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 it does require the attacker to have already obtained System privileges, limiting the attack vector to local threat actors or malware that has escalated to that level. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk if leveraged, potentially compromising device security by corrupting memory or executing arbitrary code at a higher privilege level. The patch identified as ALPS10184870 addresses this issue, though no direct patch links are provided. The vulnerability’s broad impact is due to the extensive list of affected MediaTek SoCs commonly used in mid-range to high-end smartphones and IoT devices. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an expert severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-20778 could be substantial, particularly for enterprises relying on mobile devices or IoT hardware powered by affected MediaTek chipsets. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to escalate privileges locally, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data, installation of persistent malware, or disruption of device functionality. This could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of corporate mobile endpoints or embedded systems. Given the widespread use of MediaTek SoCs in consumer and industrial devices, sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure could be indirectly affected through compromised devices. The lack of user interaction requirement increases risk in environments where devices are shared or exposed to local threat actors. However, the prerequisite of existing System privileges limits remote exploitation, reducing the likelihood of widespread remote attacks but emphasizing the need for strong internal security controls. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation before active exploitation emerges.

1. Apply vendor-supplied patches promptly once available to address the out-of-bounds write vulnerability. 2. Restrict and monitor System-level access on devices using affected MediaTek chipsets to prevent unauthorized privilege escalation. 3. Implement robust endpoint security solutions capable of detecting anomalous local activity indicative of privilege escalation attempts. 4. Enforce strict application sandboxing and privilege separation to limit the ability of compromised applications to gain System privileges. 5. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments on mobile and IoT devices within the organization to identify and remediate potential weaknesses. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of granting elevated privileges and the importance of applying security updates. 7. For organizations deploying custom Android builds, ensure integration of the latest security patches from MediaTek and Android security bulletins. 8. Monitor threat intelligence feeds for emerging exploit reports related to this CVE to adjust defensive measures accordingly.