CVE-2026-20417
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in PCIe drivers that could allow local privilege escalation. Attackers with initial System privilege access could exploit this to gain higher privileges without user interaction. The vulnerability affects systems using specific MediaTek PCIe components.
💻 Affected Systems
- MediaTek PCIe components/drivers
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete system compromise allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with kernel privileges, potentially installing persistent malware or accessing sensitive data.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation from System to kernel-level access, enabling further system manipulation and persistence.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if proper privilege separation and access controls prevent initial System privilege acquisition.
🎯 Exploit Status
Requires existing System privilege access; no user interaction needed for exploitation once initial access is obtained.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Patches identified as ALPS10314946 / ALPS10340155
Vendor Advisory: https://corp.mediatek.com/product-security-bulletin/February-2026
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Check MediaTek advisory for affected device models. 2. Apply patches ALPS10314946 or ALPS10340155. 3. Reboot system. 4. Verify patch installation through version checks.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict System Privilege Access
linuxLimit which users/processes can obtain System privilege to reduce attack surface
Review and tighten SELinux/AppArmor policies
Implement principle of least privilege for all services
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized System privilege acquisition
- Monitor for privilege escalation attempts and unusual System privilege usage
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device chipset and PCIe driver versions against MediaTek advisory; devices with vulnerable MediaTek PCIe implementations are affectedCheck Version:
Check kernel/driver version specific to MediaTek PCIe implementation (varies by device)Verify Fix Applied:
Verify patch IDs ALPS10314946 or ALPS10340155 are applied; check kernel/driver version against patched versions in advisory📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual privilege escalation attempts
- Kernel module loading anomalies
- PCIe driver crash logs
Network Indicators:
- Not applicable - local exploitation only
SIEM Query:
Search for privilege escalation events or kernel driver anomalies in system logs