CVE-2023-20626 in MT6739
Summary
by MITRE • 03/07/2023
In msdc, there is a possible out of bounds write due to an incorrect bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS07405223; Issue ID: ALPS07405223.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20626 resides within the msdc component of an Android-based system, representing a critical out-of-bounds write flaw that stems from inadequate bounds checking mechanisms. This issue manifests in the mobile subsystem data controller module where improper validation of array indices or buffer limits allows malicious code to write data beyond allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where the msdc component handles data processing operations that require strict memory management protocols.
The technical implementation of this flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition where the system fails to properly validate input parameters before performing memory operations. When the msdc module processes data streams or commands, it performs bounds checks that are insufficient to prevent writes beyond the intended memory allocation. This weakness creates a predictable attack surface where an attacker can manipulate memory layout through crafted inputs, potentially overwriting critical system structures or execution pointers. The vulnerability operates at a low system level within the kernel or privileged execution context, making it particularly dangerous for privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables local privilege escalation to system-level execution privileges without requiring user interaction. This means that any process running with standard user permissions could potentially exploit this flaw to gain complete system control, effectively bypassing traditional security boundaries. The attack vector operates entirely within the device's local environment, eliminating the need for network connectivity or user engagement, which significantly increases the exploitability and risk profile. The system execution privileges required for exploitation indicate that this vulnerability targets components that operate at the highest privilege levels within the Android security model.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-20626 should focus on implementing comprehensive bounds checking mechanisms throughout the msdc component and related data processing modules. The most effective approach involves applying the vendor-provided patch identified by patch ID ALPS07405223 which addresses the specific bounds checking logic flaw. System administrators should prioritize immediate deployment of this patch across all affected devices, particularly those running Android versions that include the vulnerable msdc implementation. Additionally, implementing runtime protections such as stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and memory protection mechanisms can provide defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potential similar flaws in related subsystems that might share the same architectural weaknesses.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software systems, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should be prevented through proper input validation and memory management protocols. The attack pattern associated with this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves local privilege escalation through exploitation of system vulnerabilities, making it particularly concerning for enterprise security environments where device integrity and access controls are paramount. The lack of user interaction requirement places this vulnerability in a high-risk category for mobile device security, as it can be exploited silently without detection or user awareness, potentially allowing persistent access to compromised systems.