CVE-2023-20679 in MT5221
Summary
by MITRE • 04/06/2023
In wlan, there is a possible out of bounds read due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with System execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS07588413; Issue ID: ALPS07588453.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20679 resides within the wireless local area network subsystem of an Android-based operating system, specifically affecting the wlan component. This flaw represents a classic out-of-bounds read condition that occurs when the system fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits during wireless network processing operations. The missing bounds check creates a scenario where malicious code can access memory locations beyond the intended buffer boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or system instability.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the wireless networking stack where packet processing routines do not sufficiently verify the length or bounds of incoming wireless frames. When a specially crafted wireless packet is processed by the wlan driver, the system attempts to read data beyond the allocated memory buffer, creating a potential pathway for privilege escalation. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-129, which specifically addresses insufficient bounds checking, and represents a direct violation of secure coding principles that mandate proper input validation and memory boundary enforcement.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is particularly severe as it enables local privilege escalation without requiring any user interaction or additional privileges beyond what is normally available to a standard system user. An attacker who gains access to a device with wlan functionality can exploit this condition to execute code with system-level privileges, effectively compromising the entire device. The exploitation process leverages the wireless subsystem's processing routines to trigger the out-of-bounds read condition, which can then be manipulated to overwrite critical system memory locations or redirect execution flow.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through system binary manipulation or exploitation of system vulnerabilities. The lack of user interaction requirement makes this particularly dangerous as it can be exploited silently during normal device operation, potentially allowing attackers to establish persistent access or exfiltrate sensitive data. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable more sophisticated attacks such as rootkit installation or complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-20679 focus primarily on applying the vendor-provided patch identified by patch ID ALPS07588413, which addresses the missing bounds check in the wlan component. System administrators should prioritize deployment of this security update across all affected devices, particularly those operating in high-risk environments or handling sensitive information. Additionally, network administrators can implement monitoring solutions to detect anomalous wireless traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while device hardening measures such as disabling unnecessary wireless functionality and implementing strict access controls can reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security audits and code reviews focusing on memory safety practices, particularly within critical system components like network drivers and wireless subsystems.