CVE-2024-13943 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Tesla Model S, specifically the 2023.44.29 software version running on vehicles equipped with the AG525RGLAAR01A16M4G_OCPU_02.003.10.003 connectivity card. The flaw resides in the QCMAP_ConnectionManager component of the Iris Modem, which is responsible for managing network connections. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-20, indicating improper input validation. An attacker with the ability to execute low-privileged code locally on the vehicle’s system can exploit this flaw to escape the sandbox environment. By abusing the QCMAP_ConnectionManager service, the attacker can assign LAN addresses to the WWAN interface, effectively exposing internal LAN-only network services to the wider WWAN network. This exposure can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive vehicle network services that were intended to be isolated, potentially allowing further compromise of vehicle systems. The vulnerability requires local access with low privileges, does not require user interaction, and can impact confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the vehicle’s network services. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the CVSS 3.0 base score of 7.8 reflects the significant risk posed by this vulnerability due to its potential to escalate privileges and compromise critical vehicle functions.

For European organizations, particularly those involved in fleet management, automotive services, or logistics using Tesla Model S vehicles, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to vehicle internal networks, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate vehicle functions, intercept sensitive data, or disrupt vehicle operations. This could result in safety hazards, operational downtime, and reputational damage. Additionally, organizations responsible for vehicle maintenance and software updates might face increased liability and compliance challenges under European regulations such as GDPR and the EU Cybersecurity Act. The exposure of internal vehicle network services could also facilitate lateral movement by attackers to other connected systems within an organization’s infrastructure, amplifying the threat landscape.

To mitigate this vulnerability, affected organizations should prioritize updating the Tesla Model S software to a patched version once Tesla releases it, as no patch links are currently available. Until then, organizations should implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized local code execution on vehicle systems, including limiting physical and remote access to vehicle diagnostic and connectivity interfaces. Employ network segmentation to isolate vehicle WWAN interfaces from critical internal networks and monitor network traffic for anomalous assignment of LAN addresses to WWAN interfaces. Additionally, deploy intrusion detection systems tailored to automotive network protocols to detect suspicious activities. Organizations should also establish robust incident response plans specific to automotive cybersecurity incidents and ensure that personnel are trained to recognize and respond to such threats. Collaboration with Tesla and automotive cybersecurity communities for threat intelligence sharing is recommended to stay informed about emerging exploits and patches.