CVE-2023-28911
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in the Bluetooth stack of MIB3 infotainment systems allows attackers to disconnect arbitrary Bluetooth channels by sending malformed data. It affects Volkswagen Group vehicles with specific MIB3 infotainment units, potentially causing denial-of-service for all connected Bluetooth devices.
💻 Affected Systems
- Volkswagen MIB3 infotainment units
- Skoda Superb III with MIB3
- Other VW Group vehicles with MIB3 infotainment
⚠️ 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
Complete Bluetooth functionality disruption for all connected devices (phones, audio streaming, hands-free calling) while vehicle is in operation, potentially affecting driver assistance features that rely on Bluetooth connectivity.
Likely Case
Temporary disconnection of Bluetooth audio and phone connections, requiring manual reconnection by users, causing inconvenience but not safety-critical system failure.
If Mitigated
Limited impact with proper network segmentation and Bluetooth security controls, potentially affecting only non-critical entertainment functions.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation demonstrated at Black Hat EU 2024. Attack requires Bluetooth proximity but no authentication. Tools for Bluetooth packet injection are publicly available.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Unknown
Vendor Advisory: No official vendor advisory found in provided references
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Contact authorized Volkswagen/Skoda dealership 2. Request MIB3 infotainment system firmware update 3. Verify update addresses CVE-2023-28911 4. Restart infotainment system after update
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Bluetooth when not in use
allTurn off Bluetooth functionality in infotainment settings to prevent exploitation
Navigate to Settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth > Turn Off
Enable Bluetooth authentication requirements
allConfigure Bluetooth to require PIN/password for all pairing attempts
Settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth > Security > Enable PIN requirement
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Physically limit Bluetooth range by parking in shielded areas or using Faraday cage bags for key fobs
- Implement network segmentation to isolate infotainment system from critical vehicle networks
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check infotainment system OEM part number against affected list. Test Bluetooth connectivity stability while sending malformed Bluetooth packets.Check Version:
Settings > System Information > Software Version (exact command varies by vehicle model)Verify Fix Applied:
Verify firmware version has been updated and test that malformed Bluetooth packets no longer cause disconnections.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Unexpected Bluetooth disconnection events
- Multiple failed Bluetooth pairing attempts from unknown devices
- Bluetooth stack error messages
Network Indicators:
- Unusual Bluetooth packet patterns
- Malformed L2CAP packets targeting infotainment system
SIEM Query:
bluetooth.disconnection.count > threshold AND device.type="vehicle_infotainment"