CVE-2025-31714 is a vulnerability identified in several Unisoc (Shanghai) Technologies Co., Ltd. chipsets, specifically the SL8521E, SL8521ET, SL8541E, UIS8141E, UWS6137, UWS6137E, UWS6151(E), and UWS6152 models. These chipsets are embedded in devices running on Mocor5, Android 8.1, and Android 9 operating systems. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation (CWE-20) within the Developer Tools component of these chipsets. Improper input validation means that the software does not adequately verify or sanitize input data, which can lead to unexpected behavior. In this case, the flaw allows a local attacker to escalate privileges without requiring any additional execution privileges or user interaction. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.8 indicates a medium severity level, with a vector string of AV:P/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. This means the attack requires physical or local access (Attack Vector: Physical), has low attack complexity, does not require privileges or user interaction, and impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree. The vulnerability could allow an attacker with local access to the device to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to full control over the device or chipset functions. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature suggests it could be leveraged in targeted attacks, especially in environments where devices with these chipsets are deployed. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. Given that these chipsets are embedded in mobile and IoT devices, the vulnerability could be exploited to compromise device security, leak sensitive data, or disrupt device operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-31714 could be significant, especially for those relying on devices powered by affected Unisoc chipsets. These devices may include smartphones, IoT endpoints, and embedded systems used in industrial, healthcare, or enterprise environments. A successful local privilege escalation attack could allow adversaries to bypass security controls, access sensitive information, manipulate device functions, or deploy persistent malware. This is particularly concerning for sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, as confidentiality breaches could lead to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, compromised devices in critical infrastructure or industrial control systems could lead to operational disruptions or safety hazards. The medium severity rating suggests that while exploitation requires local access, the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability means that successful attacks could have severe consequences. European organizations with distributed device fleets or those using devices with Mocor5 or older Android versions should be especially vigilant, as these platforms may lack modern security enhancements. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the potential for future exploitation necessitates immediate attention.

1. Inventory and Identification: Conduct a thorough inventory of devices within the organization to identify those using the affected Unisoc chipsets and running Mocor5, Android 8.1, or Android 9. 2. Access Control: Restrict physical and local access to devices, as the vulnerability requires local attack vector. Implement strict device usage policies and secure storage for devices. 3. Software Updates: Monitor Unisoc and device manufacturers for patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability. Apply updates promptly once available. 4. Device Hardening: Disable or restrict access to Developer Tools on affected devices where possible, as the vulnerability resides in this component. 5. Network Segmentation: Isolate vulnerable devices on separate network segments to limit lateral movement if a device is compromised. 6. Monitoring and Detection: Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting unusual privilege escalation attempts or anomalous behavior on affected devices. 7. User Awareness: Train users on the risks of physical device access and encourage reporting of lost or stolen devices immediately. 8. Vendor Engagement: Engage with device vendors and Unisoc for timely vulnerability disclosures and mitigation guidance. 9. Incident Response Preparedness: Prepare incident response plans specifically addressing potential exploitation scenarios involving local privilege escalation on embedded devices.