CVE-2025-20727
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability is a heap buffer overflow in MediaTek modem firmware that allows remote code execution when a device connects to a malicious base station. Attackers can exploit this without user interaction to gain elevated privileges on affected devices. This affects smartphones and IoT devices using vulnerable MediaTek modem chipsets.
💻 Affected Systems
- MediaTek modem chipsets
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete device compromise allowing attackers to install persistent malware, steal sensitive data, or use device as part of botnet.
Likely Case
Remote code execution leading to data theft, surveillance, or device instability.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if devices are patched and network-level protections prevent connection to rogue base stations.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires specialized equipment to deploy rogue base station but no authentication or user interaction needed.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Patch ID: MOLY01672601
Vendor Advisory: https://corp.mediatek.com/product-security-bulletin/November-2025
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact device manufacturer for firmware updates. 2. Apply MediaTek modem firmware patch MOLY01672601. 3. Reboot device after patch installation.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Network restriction
allRestrict devices to trusted cellular networks only
Base station filtering
allConfigure devices to reject connections from unknown base stations
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate vulnerable devices from sensitive networks and data
- Implement network monitoring for suspicious base station connections
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check device modem firmware version against MediaTek security bulletinCheck Version:
Device-specific modem firmware check commands vary by manufacturerVerify Fix Applied:
Verify patch MOLY01672601 is installed in modem firmware📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected modem firmware crashes
- Suspicious base station connection attempts
Network Indicators:
- Connections to unknown/untrusted cellular towers
- Unusual modem traffic patterns
SIEM Query:
Search for modem firmware error codes or unexpected base station handovers