CVE-2023-28906 in Volkswagen MIB3 Infotainment System MIB3 OI MQB
Summary
by MITRE • 06/28/2025
A command injection in the networking service of the MIB3 infotainment allows an attacker already presenting in the system to escalate privileges and obtain administrative access to the system. The vulnerability was originally discovered in Skoda Superb III car with MIB3 infotainment unit OEM part number 3V0035820. The list of affected MIB3 OEM part numbers is provided in the referenced resources.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-28906 represents a critical command injection flaw within the networking service of MIB3 infotainment systems, specifically targeting the automotive infotainment ecosystem. This vulnerability exists within the MIB3 infotainment unit, which serves as a central hub for vehicle connectivity and entertainment functions. The affected system is particularly prevalent in the Skoda Superb III model with OEM part number 3V0035820, though the scope extends to other vehicles utilizing the same MIB3 platform. The exploitation of this vulnerability allows an attacker who has already gained initial access to the system to escalate privileges and achieve administrative control, fundamentally compromising the vehicle's security posture.
The technical flaw manifests as a command injection vulnerability within the networking service component of the MIB3 system, which processes network-related commands and communications. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category, specifically CWE-77: Command Injection, where an attacker can inject and execute arbitrary commands through vulnerable input handling mechanisms. The vulnerability likely stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the networking service, allowing malicious payloads to be executed with elevated privileges. The command injection occurs during the processing of network configuration or communication commands, where user-supplied data is not properly escaped or validated before being passed to system commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to gain administrative access to vehicle systems that were previously considered secure. Once an attacker achieves initial system access, the command injection vulnerability allows privilege escalation to administrative levels, providing complete control over the infotainment system and potentially extending to other vehicle subsystems. This vulnerability directly relates to the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, where attackers can execute commands through legitimate system interfaces. The implications extend beyond entertainment functionality to include potential vehicle control systems, data exfiltration capabilities, and the possibility of lateral movement within the vehicle's network architecture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-28906 should focus on immediate patch deployment and system hardening measures. Vehicle manufacturers should implement firmware updates that address the input validation gaps within the networking service component. Network segmentation and access control mechanisms should be strengthened to limit the scope of potential exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in automotive systems, aligning with automotive security standards such as ISO/SAE 21434 for cybersecurity risk management. Additionally, implementing runtime application self-protection measures and regular security assessments can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous command execution patterns and provide early warning of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust security controls in connected vehicle systems and the importance of addressing security vulnerabilities proactively rather than reactively.