CVE-2025-2082

7.5 HIGH

📋 TL;DR

This vulnerability allows network-adjacent attackers to execute arbitrary code on Tesla Model 3 vehicles by exploiting an integer overflow in the VCSEC module via manipulated TPMS certificate responses. Attackers can send arbitrary messages to the vehicle CAN bus without authentication. Only Tesla Model 3 vehicles with vulnerable VCSEC firmware are affected.

💻 Affected Systems

Products:
  • Tesla Model 3
Versions: Specific VCSEC firmware versions not publicly disclosed
Operating Systems: Tesla vehicle firmware
Default Config Vulnerable: ⚠️ Yes
Notes: Requires attacker to be within Bluetooth/WiFi range of vehicle; TPMS communication is wireless

📦 What is this software?

⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact

🔴

Worst Case

Full vehicle compromise allowing attacker to control critical systems (brakes, steering, acceleration), disable safety features, or exfiltrate sensitive vehicle data.

🟠

Likely Case

Limited vehicle system manipulation (door locks, windows, climate control) or denial of service through CAN bus message injection.

🟢

If Mitigated

Attack prevented by network segmentation and firmware updates; only diagnostic access possible if attacker reaches vehicle network.

🌐 Internet-Facing: LOW (requires proximity to vehicle Bluetooth/WiFi)
🏢 Internal Only: HIGH (once on vehicle network, exploitation is straightforward)

🎯 Exploit Status

Public PoC: ✅ No
Weaponized: UNKNOWN
Unauthenticated Exploit: ⚠️ Yes
Complexity: MEDIUM

Requires understanding of TPMS protocol and VCSEC memory layout; ZDI advisory suggests working exploit

🛠️ Fix & Mitigation

✅ Official Fix

Patch Version: Tesla firmware update (specific version not disclosed)

Vendor Advisory: https://www.tesla.com/support/security-advisories

Restart Required: Yes

Instructions:

1. Connect vehicle to WiFi
2. Navigate to Controls > Software
3. Install available firmware updates
4. Vehicle will restart automatically

🔧 Temporary Workarounds

Disable Bluetooth when parked

tesla-vehicle

Prevents wireless attack vectors when vehicle is unattended

Controls > Safety & Security > Allow Mobile Access > Off

🧯 If You Can't Patch

  • Park in Faraday cage/shielded garage when not in use
  • Disable all wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, WiFi) through service mode

🔍 How to Verify

Check if Vulnerable:

Check VCSEC firmware version via Tesla service diagnostic tools

Check Version:

Not applicable via command line; use vehicle touchscreen interface

Verify Fix Applied:

Verify firmware version is updated beyond vulnerable version via Controls > Software

📡 Detection & Monitoring

Log Indicators:

  • VCSEC module crash logs
  • Unusual TPMS certificate validation failures
  • CAN bus message rate anomalies

Network Indicators:

  • Unusual Bluetooth/TPMS traffic patterns
  • Spoofed TPMS certificate transmissions

SIEM Query:

Not applicable for vehicle systems; monitor Tesla telemetry for anomalies

🔗 References

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