CVE-2024-20151
📋 TL;DR
CVE-2024-20151 is an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in MediaTek modem firmware that allows local privilege escalation. Attackers with initial System privilege access can exploit this to gain higher privileges without user interaction. This affects devices using vulnerable MediaTek modem chipsets.
💻 Affected Systems
- MediaTek modem chipsets
📦 What is this software?
Nr16 by Mediatek
Nr17 by Mediatek
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing attacker to execute arbitrary code with highest privileges, potentially gaining persistent access and control over device functions.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation enabling attackers to bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or install persistent malware on compromised devices.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if proper access controls prevent initial System privilege acquisition and device isolation is maintained.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires existing System privilege access. No public exploit code available as of advisory publication.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Patch ID: MOLY01399339
Vendor Advisory: https://corp.mediatek.com/product-security-bulletin/January-2025
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact device manufacturer for firmware updates. 2. Apply MediaTek-provided modem firmware patch. 3. Reboot device after patch installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict System Privilege Access
allLimit access to System privilege to reduce attack surface
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate affected devices from critical networks
- Implement strict access controls to prevent initial System privilege acquisition
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check modem firmware version against MediaTek security bulletin or contact device manufacturerCheck Version:
Device-specific commands vary by manufacturer. Typically: adb shell getprop ro.build.fingerprint or manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools.Verify Fix Applied:
Verify patch MOLY01399339 is applied through device firmware version check📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual modem firmware access attempts
- Privilege escalation events in system logs
Network Indicators:
- Anomalous modem communication patterns
SIEM Query:
Device logs showing unexpected System privilege changes or modem firmware access