CVE-2025-32060 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-347 (Improper Verification of Cryptographic Signature) affecting Bosch Infotainment system ECUs, specifically identified in the Nissan Leaf ZE1 manufactured in 2020. The core issue is the absence of kernel module signature verification, which means the system does not validate the authenticity or integrity of kernel modules before loading them. An attacker who has already obtained root privileges—potentially through other vulnerabilities—can exploit this flaw to load custom, malicious kernel modules into kernel space. This allows execution of arbitrary code with kernel-level privileges, effectively granting full control over the infotainment system and potentially other vehicle subsystems connected to it. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.7, reflecting medium severity, with attack vector local, low attack complexity, high privileges required, no user interaction, and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the risk remains significant due to the critical nature of kernel-level code execution. This vulnerability underscores the importance of cryptographic signature verification in automotive embedded systems, especially as infotainment units increasingly integrate with vehicle control and telematics. The flaw could be leveraged in multi-stage attacks where initial root access is gained via other means, then escalated to kernel-level control, potentially impacting vehicle safety and data privacy.

For European organizations, particularly automotive manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers, this vulnerability poses a risk of full system compromise of infotainment ECUs. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized control over vehicle subsystems, data theft, or disruption of vehicle functions, impacting driver safety and privacy. The automotive industry in Europe is a critical sector with extensive supply chains; a successful exploit could damage brand reputation, cause regulatory scrutiny, and incur financial losses. Additionally, connected vehicles are integral to emerging smart mobility and infrastructure projects in Europe, so compromised infotainment systems could be leveraged for broader attacks on transportation networks. The requirement for prior root access limits immediate risk but does not eliminate it, as chained vulnerabilities or insider threats could facilitate exploitation. The absence of kernel module signature verification weakens the defense-in-depth posture of affected systems, increasing the attack surface. Organizations must consider this vulnerability in their risk assessments, especially for vehicles deployed in Europe where Nissan Leaf and Bosch components are prevalent.

1. Implement strict access controls and monitoring to prevent unauthorized root-level access on infotainment ECUs. 2. Deploy runtime integrity monitoring tools to detect unauthorized kernel module loading or modifications. 3. Collaborate with Bosch and Nissan to obtain and apply firmware updates or patches once available; if none exist, request vendor timelines and interim mitigations. 4. Employ network segmentation to isolate infotainment systems from critical vehicle control networks to limit attack propagation. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on privilege escalation vectors that could lead to root access. 6. Enhance cryptographic verification mechanisms for kernel modules in future ECU firmware versions, ensuring signature validation is enforced. 7. Train incident response teams to recognize signs of kernel-level compromise in automotive systems. 8. For fleet operators, implement monitoring for anomalous ECU behavior and establish rapid update deployment processes. 9. Engage in threat intelligence sharing within the automotive cybersecurity community to stay informed about emerging exploits related to this vulnerability.