CVE-2025-20799 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416 found in the c2ps component of MediaTek chipsets MT6899, MT6991, MT6993, and MT8793. This vulnerability arises when the software incorrectly manages memory, freeing an object but later continuing to use it, which leads to memory corruption. Such corruption can be exploited by an attacker who already possesses System-level privileges on the device to escalate their privileges further, potentially gaining higher control over the system. The vulnerability affects devices running Android versions 15.0 and 16.0. Exploitation does not require user interaction, increasing the risk of automated or stealthy attacks once initial access is obtained. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8 reflects high severity, with impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is local (AV:L), requiring low attack complexity (AC:L) and privileges (PR:L), but no user interaction (UI:N). The vulnerability scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the impact is confined to the vulnerable component. MediaTek has assigned a patch ID ALPS10274607 to address this issue. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability’s nature suggests it could be leveraged in targeted attacks or combined with other exploits to gain full device control.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-20799 is local privilege escalation on devices with affected MediaTek chipsets running Android 15 or 16. An attacker with System privileges can exploit this use-after-free flaw to corrupt memory, potentially executing arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This can lead to full device compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive data, and disruption of device functionality. The vulnerability affects confidentiality by enabling unauthorized data access, integrity by allowing unauthorized code execution or modification, and availability by potentially causing system crashes or instability. Organizations relying on devices with these chipsets, especially in sensitive environments, face increased risk of insider threats or post-compromise escalation. Although exploitation requires prior System-level access, the lack of user interaction needed makes it easier for attackers to automate or chain exploits. This vulnerability could be particularly damaging in enterprise mobile deployments, IoT devices, or critical infrastructure using these chipsets.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20799, organizations should promptly apply the patch identified as ALPS10274607 provided by MediaTek or device manufacturers. Device administrators should verify that Android versions 15.0 or 16.0 running on affected MediaTek chipsets MT6899, MT6991, MT6993, and MT8793 are updated to patched firmware. Restricting System-level privileges to trusted applications and users reduces the risk of exploitation. Employing runtime protections such as memory corruption mitigations (e.g., Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), Control Flow Integrity (CFI)) can help limit exploitation impact. Monitoring for unusual local privilege escalation attempts and auditing System-level access can provide early detection. In environments where patching is delayed, consider isolating affected devices or limiting their access to sensitive networks. Security teams should also review device configurations to minimize unnecessary System privilege assignments and educate users about the risks of granting elevated permissions.