CVE-2026-20448 Missing authorization in MediaTek chipset
A missing permission check in geniezone allows local attackers with System privileges to escalate privileges on MediaTek Android devices.
- Exploited in the wild
- Not known
- Login needed
- An administrator
- Attackable
- Local or same network only
- Victim action needed
- Not needed
- Fix
- Available
What is CVE-2026-20448?
CVE-2026-20448 is a medium-severity missing authorization vulnerability in MediaTek, Inc. MediaTek chipset, published on 4 May 2026. It can only be exploited from the same machine or local network, with no action from the victim.
Official description
In geniezone, there is a possible escalation of privilege due to a missing permission check. This could lead to local escalation of privilege if a malicious actor has already obtained the System privilege. User interaction is not needed for exploitation. Patch ID: ALPS10708513; Issue ID: MSV-6281.
Weakness: CWE-280
Which versions are affected by CVE-2026-20448?
It affects 22 products.
Products include Mediatek Mt6765 Firmware, Mediatek Mt6768 Firmware, Mediatek Mt6789 Firmware, Mediatek Mt6877 Firmware, Mediatek Mt6897 Firmware, Mediatek Mt6899 Firmware and 16 more.
How do I fix CVE-2026-20448?
Apply the vendor's patch.
Upgrade, and check permissions on every request on the server, not only in the interface. More about Missing authorization.
Is CVE-2026-20448 being exploited?
There is no known exploitation of CVE-2026-20448 in the wild and no public exploit code.
Sources
Also known as A-488938763, ASB-A-488938763, GHSA-wjg5-fw3x-2x8v, M-ALPS10708513.