CVE-2026-118607 in iLX-F511
Summary
by MITRE • 10/28/2026
Alpine iLX-F511 diagapp Command Injection Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows physically present attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Alpine iLX-F511 devices. Authentication is not required to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the diagapp component. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it to execute a system call. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of root. Was ZDI-CAN-28750.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/28/2026
The Alpine iLX-F511 is an automotive infotainment head unit that incorporates various diagnostic and maintenance utilities, one of which is the diagapp component. This specific vulnerability represents a critical security failure within this utility, classified as CWE-78 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command commonly known as command injection. The core technical flaw stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms when processing user-supplied strings prior to their execution via system calls. In the context of embedded automotive systems, such utilities are often designed for service technicians and may operate with elevated privileges to facilitate deep-level diagnostics or firmware updates. However, in this instance, the application fails to sanitize or validate inputs effectively, allowing an attacker to inject malicious shell commands that get executed directly by the operating system kernel under root permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe due to the lack of authentication requirements and the high privilege level granted to the executing process. An attacker with physical access to the vehicle can interact with the diagapp interface or connected diagnostic ports to supply crafted input strings. Because no authentication barrier exists, any individual who can physically reach the device's user interface or associated service port can exploit this flaw without credentials. Once exploited, the arbitrary code execution occurs in the context of root, granting the attacker full control over the underlying operating system. This level of access allows for complete compromise of the infotainment system, including the ability to read sensitive data such as navigation history, paired device information, and potentially vehicle identification numbers or user preferences stored locally on the device.
From a threat modeling perspective aligned with MITRE ATT&CK frameworks, this vulnerability facilitates initial access through physical interaction (T1059) followed by command execution (T1059). The ability to execute code as root significantly lowers the barrier for subsequent lateral movement or persistence mechanisms within the vehicle's internal network. Although modern vehicles often segregate infotainment systems from critical driving controls via gateways, a compromised head unit can still serve as a pivot point. Attackers could potentially probe connected networks, attempt to exploit other vulnerabilities in telematics units, or exfiltrate personal data for identity theft purposes. The physical presence requirement limits the attack surface primarily to scenarios where an attacker has direct access to the vehicle interior, such as during theft attempts, unauthorized use, or malicious tampering by service personnel with ill intent.
Mitigation strategies must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. For affected installations, Alpine should release a firmware update that patches the diagapp component by implementing strict input validation and parameterization of system calls to prevent command injection. Until such updates are available, users can mitigate risk by disabling or restricting access to diagnostic modes if possible through existing settings, although this may not be feasible given the lack of authentication controls in some implementations. From a broader industry standpoint, manufacturers must adopt secure coding practices that enforce least privilege principles and rigorous input sanitization for all components interacting with system shells. Additionally, implementing role-based access control even for physical interfaces can prevent unauthorized users from triggering high-privilege operations. Regular security audits and penetration testing of embedded automotive software are essential to identify such flaws before deployment in production vehicles.