CVE-2025-20641 in MT6739
Summary
by MITRE • 02/03/2025
In DA, there is a possible out of bounds write due to a missing bounds check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege, if an attacker has physical access to the device, with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS09291146; Issue ID: MSV-2058.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-20641 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition within the DA component of a system architecture, classified under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as CWE-787. This flaw manifests when the system fails to perform adequate bounds checking during memory operations, creating a scenario where malicious data can be written beyond the allocated memory boundaries. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where DA (Device Access) functionality is implemented, potentially compromising the integrity of the underlying memory management mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and memory boundary verification within the DA subsystem. When processing certain data inputs, the system does not properly validate the size or range of memory allocations, allowing for memory corruption that can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can occur during normal operational procedures when the DA component handles user-supplied data or configuration parameters. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through physical access to the device, eliminating the need for network-based attack vectors or additional privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly to local privilege escalation scenarios, as demonstrated by the exploitation requirements and potential outcomes. An attacker with physical access to a device can leverage this out-of-bounds write condition to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, effectively bypassing standard security controls. The requirement for user interaction suggests that exploitation typically involves a specific sequence of actions or inputs that trigger the vulnerable code path. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where physical access is possible, such as public devices, unattended terminals, or systems in controlled physical environments.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2025-20641 involves implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms throughout the DA component and ensuring all memory operations include adequate validation procedures. Security patches should address the root cause by incorporating proper input sanitization and memory boundary verification before any write operations occur. The patch ID ALPS09291146 indicates that this vulnerability has been addressed through a specific firmware or software update that corrects the memory handling logic. Organizations should prioritize deployment of this patch, particularly in environments where physical access controls are insufficient or where the systems are located in potentially compromised physical environments. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK framework category T1068 suggests it relates to privilege escalation techniques and should be monitored as part of broader security posture assessments.
The broader implications of this vulnerability extend beyond immediate exploitation scenarios to encompass potential denial-of-service conditions and data corruption within the affected system. The out-of-bounds write condition can cause system instability, application crashes, or even complete system failure when memory corruption affects critical system components. Additionally, the vulnerability's susceptibility to physical access-based exploitation highlights the importance of implementing robust physical security controls alongside traditional cybersecurity measures. Organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify similar memory handling issues within other system components and ensure comprehensive testing of memory operations across all software modules. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper memory management practices and the need for rigorous code review processes that specifically address bounds checking and memory safety considerations.