CVE-2023-28904
📋 TL;DR
This CVE describes a logic flaw in the MIB3 infotainment system bootloader that allows attackers with physical access to bypass firmware signature verification and execute arbitrary code during boot. The vulnerability affects Volkswagen vehicles with MIB3 infotainment units. Successful exploitation requires physical access to the vehicle's ECU.
💻 Affected Systems
- Volkswagen MIB3 infotainment system
⚠️ Manual Verification Required
This CVE does not have specific version information in our database, so automatic vulnerability detection cannot determine if your system is affected.
Why? The CVE database entry doesn't specify which versions are vulnerable (no version ranges provided by the vendor/NVD).
🔒 Custom verification scripts are available for registered users. Sign up free to download automated test scripts.
- Review the CVE details at NVD
- Check vendor security advisories for your specific version
- Test if the vulnerability is exploitable in your environment
- Consider updating to the latest version as a precaution
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
An attacker could install persistent malware, compromise vehicle systems, access personal data, or potentially affect vehicle safety systems through the infotainment network.
Likely Case
Local attacker installs custom firmware to access infotainment features, extract personal data, or use as foothold for further vehicle network attacks.
If Mitigated
With proper physical security controls, the risk is limited to authorized personnel only, preventing unauthorized physical access to the ECU.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires physical access and technical knowledge of ECU connections and bootloader manipulation. Public research demonstrates the technique.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Updated MIB3 firmware from Volkswagen
Vendor Advisory: Contact Volkswagen dealership or service center for specific advisory
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact authorized Volkswagen dealership. 2. Schedule infotainment system firmware update. 3. Technician will apply official patch via diagnostic interface. 4. System will reboot automatically after update.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Physical Access Control
allRestrict physical access to vehicle interior and ECU components
ECU Tamper Detection
allImplement physical tamper detection mechanisms on ECU access points
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict physical security controls for vehicle access
- Monitor for unauthorized physical access to vehicle ECU components
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check MIB3 firmware version via vehicle infotainment system settings menu or diagnostic toolCheck Version:
Navigate to: Settings > System Information > Software Version in infotainment menuVerify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version matches latest patched version from Volkswagen after dealership update📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected bootloader activity
- Firmware modification attempts
- Unauthorized diagnostic tool connections
Network Indicators:
- Unusual CAN bus traffic patterns during boot process
SIEM Query:
Not applicable - primarily physical access detection required🔗 References
- https://asrg.io/security-advisories/vulnerabilities-in-volkswagen-mib3-infotainment-part-2/
- https://i.blackhat.com/EU-24/Presentations/EU-24-Parnishchev-OverTheAirVW.pdf
- https://pcacybersecurity.com/resources/advisory/vulnerabilities-in-vw-mib3-infotainment-2
- https://i.blackhat.com/EU-24/Presentations/EU-24-Parnishchev-OverTheAirVW.pdf
