CVE-2020-16142 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

On Mercedes-Benz C Class AMG Premium Plus c220 BlueTec vehicles, the Bluetooth stack mishandles %x and %c format-string specifiers in a device name in the COMAND infotainment software.

Understanding CVE-2020-16142

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Bluetooth stack of Mercedes-Benz C Class AMG Premium Plus c220 BlueTec vehicles.

What is CVE-2020-16142?

The vulnerability arises from mishandling %x and %c format-string specifiers in the device name within the COMAND infotainment software.

The Impact of CVE-2020-16142

The vulnerability could potentially be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service on affected vehicles.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-16142

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from improper handling of format-string specifiers in the Bluetooth stack of the COMAND infotainment software.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Mercedes-Benz C Class AMG Premium Plus c220 BlueTec
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the device name with malicious %x and %c format-string specifiers.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting against and addressing the CVE.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the COMAND infotainment software to the latest version provided by Mercedes-Benz.
Avoid connecting to untrusted Bluetooth devices.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all vehicle software and firmware.
Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems from potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly as released by Mercedes-Benz to address this vulnerability.