CVE-2023-20655 in MT2715
Summary
by MITRE • 04/06/2023
In mmsdk, there is a possible escalation of privilege due to a parcel format mismatch. This could lead to local code execution with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS07203022; Issue ID: ALPS07203022.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20655 resides within the mmsdk component of an Android-based system, representing a critical privilege escalation flaw that undermines the security model of the affected platform. This issue stems from a parcel format mismatch that occurs during inter-process communication operations, creating a scenario where malicious code can manipulate system behavior without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges to initiate exploitation. The vulnerability specifically affects the Android Media Framework and is categorized under the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) 20, which addresses "Improper Input Validation" and encompasses issues related to improper handling of data structures during communication between system components.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the improper validation of parcel data structures when processing media-related commands through the Android framework. When the system receives a malformed parcel containing media data, the mmsdk component fails to properly validate the data format before processing it, leading to a situation where an attacker can craft malicious input that causes the system to execute unintended code paths. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework category of privilege escalation through system services, specifically targeting the Android Media Framework (T1068) and leveraging the system's inter-process communication mechanisms (T1059.003). The vulnerability operates at the kernel level or system service layer, where the mmsdk component processes media data, making it particularly dangerous as it can potentially allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges without requiring root access or any form of user interaction.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-20655 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a complete breakdown in the system's security boundaries. Once exploited, the vulnerability can enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, potentially allowing for complete system compromise. The lack of user interaction requirements makes this vulnerability particularly concerning for mobile devices, as it can be exploited through background processes or automated attacks without any user awareness. The vulnerability affects devices running Android versions where the affected mmsdk component is present, and the patch ID ALPS07203022 specifically addresses this issue by implementing proper parcel format validation and ensuring that all incoming media data is properly sanitized before processing. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in system services and highlights how seemingly minor flaws in data handling can lead to complete system compromise, making it a prime target for advanced persistent threats and zero-day exploits in the mobile security landscape.