CVE-2023-28909
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected Volkswagen MIB3 infotainment systems via Bluetooth. An integer overflow in the Bluetooth stack enables buffer overflow attacks, potentially giving attackers control over the vehicle's infotainment unit. The vulnerability affects Skoda Superb III and other Volkswagen vehicles with specific MIB3 hardware units.
💻 Affected Systems
- Volkswagen MIB3 infotainment units
- Skoda Superb III with MIB3
- Other VW Group vehicles with MIB3 hardware
⚠️ 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
Remote code execution leading to complete compromise of infotainment system, potential vehicle control if integrated with critical systems, and lateral movement to other vehicle networks.
Likely Case
Infotainment system compromise allowing data theft, audio/video manipulation, GPS spoofing, and potential access to connected mobile devices.
If Mitigated
Limited to infotainment system only if proper network segmentation prevents access to critical vehicle control systems.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires proximity Bluetooth access (typically within 10 meters). Attack demonstrated at Black Hat EU 2024.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Check with vehicle manufacturer/dealer for specific firmware updates
Vendor Advisory: https://pcacybersecurity.com/resources/advisory/vulnerabilities-in-vw-mib3-infotainment-2
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact authorized Volkswagen/Skoda dealer 2. Schedule firmware update 3. Verify Bluetooth stack version after update 4. Test Bluetooth functionality
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Bluetooth
allTurn off Bluetooth functionality to prevent exploitation
Navigate to infotainment settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth > Turn OFF
Enable Pairing Mode Only When Needed
allSet Bluetooth to non-discoverable mode and only enable pairing briefly
Navigate to infotainment settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth visibility > Hidden
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Physically disable Bluetooth module if possible
- Implement physical security controls to limit proximity access to vehicle
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check MIB3 unit OEM part number against affected list. If part number matches and Bluetooth is enabled, assume vulnerable.Check Version:
Check infotainment system > Settings > System Information > Software VersionVerify Fix Applied:
Contact dealer to verify firmware version has been updated to patched version. Test Bluetooth functionality remains operational.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unusual Bluetooth connection attempts
- Multiple fragmented HCI packet receptions
- System crashes or reboots
Network Indicators:
- Bluetooth scanning from unusual locations
- Multiple connection attempts to vehicle Bluetooth
SIEM Query:
bluetooth AND (fragmented OR hci) AND vehicle_identifier🔗 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
