CVE-2025-20804 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, affecting MediaTek chipsets MT6899 and MT6991, specifically within the dpe component on Android 16.0 devices. The vulnerability arises when memory is freed but still accessed afterward, leading to memory corruption. This flaw can be exploited by a malicious actor who already possesses System-level privileges on the device, allowing them to escalate privileges locally. Exploitation requires user interaction, which suggests that an attacker must trick the user into performing some action, such as opening a malicious file or app. The vulnerability does not allow remote exploitation from an unprivileged state, limiting its risk to scenarios where the attacker has already compromised the device to some extent. No public exploits or widespread attacks have been reported to date. The patch for this vulnerability is identified as ALPS10198951, though no direct patch link is provided. The vulnerability's presence in widely used MediaTek chipsets means that many Android 16.0 devices could be affected, especially those in markets where these chipsets are prevalent. The flaw threatens the integrity and confidentiality of the system by enabling privilege escalation, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls and execute unauthorized code or access sensitive data.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-20804 lies in the potential for local privilege escalation on devices using MediaTek MT6899 or MT6991 chipsets running Android 16.0. This could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of mobile devices used within corporate environments, especially if attackers have already gained system-level access through other means. Sectors relying heavily on mobile security, such as finance, healthcare, and government, could face increased risk if attackers leverage this vulnerability to deepen their foothold. Although exploitation requires user interaction and prior system privileges, the vulnerability could facilitate lateral movement or persistence within an organization's mobile ecosystem. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk, but the availability of a patch and public disclosure means attackers may develop exploits over time. Organizations with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies or those deploying MediaTek-based Android devices should be vigilant. Failure to address this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or disruption of mobile services critical to business operations.

To mitigate CVE-2025-20804, European organizations should prioritize the following actions: 1) Apply the vendor patch ALPS10198951 as soon as it becomes available through official MediaTek or device manufacturer channels. 2) Enforce strict access controls to prevent unauthorized users from obtaining System-level privileges on Android devices. 3) Educate users about the risks of interacting with untrusted applications or files that could trigger the vulnerability. 4) Implement mobile device management (MDM) solutions to monitor and restrict application installations and enforce security policies. 5) Regularly audit devices for signs of compromise or privilege escalation attempts. 6) Limit the use of Android 16.0 devices with affected chipsets in sensitive environments until patched. 7) Collaborate with device vendors to ensure timely updates and security support. 8) Employ runtime protection mechanisms or endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools capable of detecting anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling system privileges, user behavior, and patch management specific to the affected platforms.