Overview
CVE-2025-20774 describes a security vulnerability in MediaTek’s display driver. This vulnerability is an out-of-bounds write issue stemming from a missing bounds check within the display component. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow a local attacker, who has already gained System privileges, to escalate their privileges further.
The vulnerability has been assigned Patch ID ALPS10196993 and Issue ID MSV-4796 by MediaTek.
Technical Details
The root cause of CVE-2025-20774 is a missing bounds check in the display driver code. Without proper validation of input sizes or array indices, a malicious actor can potentially write data outside of the allocated memory buffer. This out-of-bounds write can overwrite critical system data or code, leading to unexpected behavior or, more seriously, privilege escalation. The vulnerability resides within the display subcomponent of the MediaTek system, making it a concerning issue for devices utilizing affected MediaTek chipsets.
The specific location in the code where the missing bounds check exists is not publicly disclosed beyond the general area of the display driver. Deeper analysis may require reverse engineering of the affected driver versions.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, a CVSS score is not available (N/A) for CVE-2025-20774. However, the description indicates that successful exploitation requires an attacker to already possess System privileges. This factor significantly influences the CVSS base score, potentially decreasing its severity as it requires pre-existing elevated access. The fact that user interaction is *not* required increases the potential for remote exploitation if chained with another vulnerability.
A complete CVSS analysis would require further information regarding the attack vector, attack complexity, privileges required, user interaction, scope, confidentiality impact, integrity impact, and availability impact.
Possible Impact
While the attacker must already possess System privileges to exploit this vulnerability, successful exploitation could lead to:
- Privilege Escalation: An attacker with System privileges could elevate their privileges further, potentially gaining root access to the device.
- Arbitrary Code Execution: Overwriting critical system code can allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the highest level of privileges.
- System Instability: Out-of-bounds writes can corrupt system memory, leading to crashes, instability, or denial of service.
- Data Theft: A compromised system can allow attackers to steal sensitive data stored on the device.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
The primary mitigation strategy is to apply the security patch provided by MediaTek. Device manufacturers using affected MediaTek chipsets should integrate Patch ID ALPS10196993 into their device firmware and release updates to end-users.
Users should ensure that their devices are running the latest available software updates provided by their device manufacturer to address this vulnerability. It’s crucial to install these updates promptly to minimize the risk of exploitation.
