CVE-2024-6032 is a high-severity OS command injection vulnerability affecting the Tesla Model S, specifically versions 2023.44.29 equipped with the AG525RGLAAR01A16M4G_OCPU_02.003.10.003 connectivity card. The flaw resides in the ql_atfwd process, which handles modem communications. This process improperly neutralizes special characters in user-supplied input before executing system calls, allowing an attacker with local code execution capabilities to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary commands as root on the modem subsystem. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-78 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command), indicating that input validation failures enable injection of malicious OS commands. Exploitation requires the attacker to first gain some form of local code execution on the vehicle’s modem system, which might be achieved through other vulnerabilities or physical access. Once exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary code with root privileges on the modem, potentially compromising the vehicle’s connectivity and related systems. The CVSS v3.0 base score is 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and requiring low privileges but no user interaction. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been published yet. This vulnerability was assigned by ZDI (ZDI-CAN-23201) and is enriched by CISA data, highlighting its significance in cybersecurity advisories.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is significant, especially for entities operating Tesla Model S vehicles with the affected connectivity card and software version. Compromise of the modem subsystem could lead to unauthorized remote access or control over vehicle communications, potentially enabling tracking, data exfiltration, or disruption of vehicle connectivity services. This could affect fleet operators, corporate users, and critical infrastructure relying on Tesla vehicles for transportation or logistics. The root-level code execution on the modem could also serve as a pivot point for further attacks on the vehicle’s internal networks or connected infrastructure. Given the increasing integration of connected vehicles into smart city and IoT ecosystems in Europe, exploitation could have cascading effects on data privacy, operational continuity, and safety. Additionally, the lack of user interaction and low complexity of exploitation increase the risk profile for targeted attacks against high-value European organizations and individuals using affected Tesla Model S models.

Tesla owners and fleet operators should verify the software version and connectivity card firmware of their Model S vehicles and avoid using affected versions (2023.44.29 with AG525RGLAAR01A16M4G_OCPU_02.003.10.003) until a vendor patch is released. Implement strict physical security controls to prevent unauthorized local access to the vehicle’s modem hardware, as exploitation requires local code execution capabilities. Monitor vehicle network traffic for unusual or unauthorized commands sent to the modem subsystem, leveraging anomaly detection tools tailored for automotive networks. Coordinate with Tesla support channels to receive timely updates and firmware patches addressing this vulnerability once available. For fleet management, consider isolating vehicle connectivity modules from critical enterprise networks to limit potential lateral movement in case of compromise. Engage in threat intelligence sharing with automotive cybersecurity communities and European CERTs to stay informed about emerging exploits or mitigation strategies related to this vulnerability. Evaluate and enhance endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities on connected vehicle management systems to detect signs of exploitation attempts targeting vehicle modems.