CVE-2025-20806 is a use-after-free vulnerability classified under CWE-416, affecting MediaTek chipsets MT6899, MT6991, and MT8793, specifically within the dpe component on devices running Android 16.0. The vulnerability arises from improper memory management where a previously freed memory region is accessed, causing memory corruption. This flaw can be exploited locally by an attacker who already possesses System-level privileges, enabling them to escalate privileges further, potentially gaining higher system control or bypassing security restrictions. The attack does not require any user interaction, increasing the risk in automated or background attack scenarios. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.7 reflects a medium severity, with an attack vector limited to local access (AV:L), low attack complexity (AC:L), but requiring high privileges (PR:H). The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as exploitation could allow unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of system components, or denial of service. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the presence of a patch (ALPS10114835) indicates vendor acknowledgment and remediation. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for devices using the specified MediaTek chipsets, which are common in many Android smartphones and IoT devices. Organizations relying on these devices should prioritize patching to prevent potential privilege escalation attacks that could compromise device security and data integrity.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk primarily in environments where Android 16.0 devices with MediaTek MT6899, MT6991, or MT8793 chipsets are used, such as corporate mobile devices, IoT deployments, or embedded systems. An attacker with System privileges could exploit this flaw to gain elevated control, potentially accessing sensitive corporate data, manipulating device functions, or disrupting services. This could lead to data breaches, loss of intellectual property, or operational downtime. Sectors like finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, which often use mobile or embedded devices for sensitive operations, are particularly vulnerable. The lack of user interaction requirement means that automated attacks or malware running with System privileges could exploit this vulnerability silently. Although exploitation requires prior System-level access, the escalation could facilitate lateral movement or persistence within networks. The medium CVSS score suggests a moderate but non-negligible threat, especially if combined with other vulnerabilities or social engineering tactics. Failure to patch could expose organizations to advanced persistent threats targeting mobile and IoT ecosystems.

1. Apply the official patch ALPS10114835 from MediaTek or device manufacturers immediately to affected devices running Android 16.0 on MT6899, MT6991, or MT8793 chipsets. 2. Implement strict access controls and monitoring to prevent unauthorized acquisition of System-level privileges, as exploitation requires such privileges. 3. Employ runtime protection mechanisms such as memory protection and anomaly detection on devices to detect and block use-after-free exploitation attempts. 4. Regularly audit and harden device configurations to minimize the attack surface, including disabling unnecessary services or components that could be leveraged to gain System privileges. 5. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions tailored for mobile and embedded devices to identify suspicious behavior indicative of privilege escalation. 6. Educate users and administrators about the risks of privilege misuse and enforce least privilege principles to limit potential damage. 7. Maintain an inventory of devices with affected chipsets to prioritize patch deployment and risk assessment. 8. Collaborate with vendors and security communities to stay informed about emerging exploits or additional mitigations related to this vulnerability.