CVE-2020-28656 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover Media infotainment system in Volkswagen Polo 2019 vehicles is vulnerable to arbitrary code execution due to parsing unsigned parts of a metainfo file, enabling attackers to write and execute malicious files as root.
The update functionality of the Discover Media infotainment system in Volkswagen Polo 2019 vehicles allows physically proximate attackers to execute arbitrary code due to parsing unsigned parts of a metainfo file, enabling the writing and execution of attacker-controlled files as root.
Understanding CVE-2020-28656
This CVE identifies a vulnerability in the infotainment system of Volkswagen Polo 2019 vehicles that can be exploited by attackers in close physical proximity.
What is CVE-2020-28656?
The vulnerability in the Discover Media infotainment system of Volkswagen Polo 2019 vehicles permits attackers to run arbitrary code by manipulating unsigned sections of a metainfo file, potentially leading to the execution of malicious files as root.
The Impact of CVE-2020-28656
Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in unauthorized code execution on the infotainment system, allowing attackers to compromise the system's integrity and potentially gain control over critical functions.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-28656
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw lies in the update mechanism of the Discover Media infotainment system, where unsigned portions of a metainfo file are processed, enabling attackers to introduce and execute malicious code on the system.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Volkswagen Polo 2019 vehicles
- Vendor: Volkswagen
- Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers need physical proximity to the vehicle to exploit this vulnerability, allowing them to manipulate the metainfo file and execute unauthorized code on the infotainment system.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2020-28656 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable the update functionality on the infotainment system if not essential
- Regularly monitor for any unauthorized changes or file executions
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement code signing and validation mechanisms for software updates
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities
Patching and Updates
- Contact Volkswagen for official patches or updates to address this vulnerability