CVE-2025-20729:Out-of-bounds write vulnerability in MediaTek WLAN AP driver allows local privilege escalation.

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Description Preview

A vulnerability has been identified in the WLAN AP driver of MediaTek devices. This flaw stems from an incorrect bounds check, which could potentially lead to an out-of-bounds write. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow a malicious actor with System privileges to escalate their privileges locally. The issue is tracked as CVE-2025-20729 and has been assigned a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.2 (Medium severity).

Overview

The vulnerability (CVE-2025-20729) affects the WLAN AP driver in MediaTek devices. It is characterized by an out-of-bounds write vulnerability resulting from an improper bounds check. This flaw could be exploited by an attacker who has already obtained System privileges to further escalate their privileges on the affected device. The vulnerability does not require user interaction for exploitation, making it particularly concerning. The issue has been assigned the internal tracking number MSV-4153 by MediaTek.

From a technical standpoint, the vulnerability is classified as CWE-122, which refers to a heap-based buffer overflow. This type of vulnerability can lead to corruption of data, crashes, or code execution. The CVSS v3.1 score of 4.2 indicates a medium severity, with the attack vector being local, attack complexity low, and privileges required being high. The potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is assessed as low.

Remediation

MediaTek has addressed this vulnerability with a patch identified as WCNCR00441512. Users and administrators of affected MediaTek devices should apply this patch as soon as it becomes available through their device manufacturer or service provider. It is crucial to keep all MediaTek-based devices updated with the latest security patches to mitigate this and other potential vulnerabilities.

In addition to applying the patch, it is recommended to implement the principle of least privilege, ensuring that users and processes operate with the minimum level of access necessary. This can help limit the potential impact of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

References

[1] MediaTek. (2025, November). Product Security Bulletin - November 2025. https://corp.mediatek.com/product-security-bulletin/November-2025

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction: Low
    Construction
  6. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

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