CVE-2023-20707 in MT6735
Summary
by MITRE • 05/16/2023
In ril, there is a possible out of bounds write 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: ALPS07628556; Issue ID: ALPS07628556.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-20707 resides within the ril component of Android systems, representing a critical out-of-bounds write flaw that fundamentally compromises system security. This issue manifests in the absence of proper bounds checking mechanisms within the radio interface layer implementation, creating a scenario where malicious code can manipulate memory regions beyond their allocated boundaries. The ril component serves as a crucial interface between the Android framework and cellular radio hardware, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks that could potentially compromise the entire system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software implementations. The flaw occurs when the ril module processes incoming data without validating array indices or buffer limits, allowing an attacker to write data beyond the intended memory allocation. This type of vulnerability typically arises from inadequate input validation and buffer management practices within low-level system components. The missing bounds check creates a predictable memory corruption scenario where an attacker can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical system structures or executing arbitrary code.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-20707 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it enables local privilege escalation to system-level execution privileges. This means that an attacker with minimal system access could potentially elevate their privileges to gain complete control over the device. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require user interaction, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered automatically when the ril component processes specific inputs or commands. This characteristic places the vulnerability in the ATT&CK matrix under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of system-level privileges for unauthorized access.
The patch ID ALPS07628556 indicates this vulnerability was addressed in a specific Android system update, requiring system administrators and device manufacturers to implement the corresponding fix. The issue ID ALPS07628556 further demonstrates that this vulnerability was tracked within the Android Linux platform's internal tracking systems, suggesting it was part of a broader security assessment process. Organizations should prioritize applying this patch immediately, as the vulnerability represents a significant risk to device security and could enable attackers to establish persistent access to mobile devices.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of the Android security patch associated with ALPS07628556, along with comprehensive system monitoring for signs of exploitation attempts. Security teams should implement network-based detection measures to identify potential exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability, while also conducting vulnerability assessments to ensure all affected ril implementations have been properly updated. The remediation process requires careful verification that the patch has been correctly applied without introducing compatibility issues with existing cellular radio functionality, as the ril component's proper operation is essential for maintaining device connectivity and communication capabilities.