CVE-2025-32060 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-347, indicating improper verification of cryptographic signatures in the Bosch Infotainment system ECU. Specifically, the system lacks kernel module signature verification, meaning that if an attacker can already execute commands as the root user—potentially through other vulnerabilities—they can load custom kernel modules into kernel space. This capability allows execution of arbitrary code with kernel privileges, effectively granting full control over the system. The vulnerability was first identified in the Nissan Leaf ZE1 model manufactured in 2020, which uses Bosch infotainment ECUs. The absence of kernel module signature checks undermines the integrity of the kernel, a critical security boundary. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.7 (medium severity), with attack vector local, low attack complexity, requiring high privileges but no user interaction. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is high, as kernel-level code execution can bypass all user-space security mechanisms. No patches or exploits are currently publicly known, but the vulnerability represents a significant risk if combined with other privilege escalation flaws. The lack of kernel module signature verification is a fundamental security design flaw that should be addressed by Bosch in future firmware updates.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the potential for complete system compromise of affected infotainment ECUs. An attacker who gains root access can load malicious kernel modules, enabling them to execute arbitrary code at the kernel level. This can lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation of vehicle functions, disruption of infotainment services, or persistent malware installation that survives reboots. For automotive systems, such control could extend to safety-critical components if the infotainment ECU interfaces with other vehicle networks or control units. This poses risks to driver safety, privacy, and vehicle reliability. The requirement for prior root access limits the immediate risk but also means that this vulnerability can be a powerful escalation vector when chained with other exploits. Organizations relying on Bosch infotainment systems, especially in electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf ZE1, face risks of targeted attacks aiming to compromise vehicle security and user data. The absence of known exploits suggests the vulnerability is not yet actively exploited, but the potential impact warrants proactive mitigation.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should: 1) Monitor Bosch and vehicle manufacturers for firmware updates or patches addressing kernel module signature verification and apply them promptly. 2) Implement strict access controls and hardening measures to prevent attackers from obtaining root-level command execution, such as disabling unnecessary services, enforcing least privilege principles, and using secure boot mechanisms. 3) Employ runtime integrity monitoring tools that can detect unauthorized kernel module loading or unusual kernel activity. 4) Conduct thorough security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate other vulnerabilities that could lead to root access, thereby reducing the risk of exploitation chains. 5) Collaborate with automotive cybersecurity teams to ensure secure communication between infotainment ECUs and other vehicle systems, limiting the impact of a compromised ECU. 6) Consider network segmentation within vehicle architectures to isolate infotainment systems from critical control units. 7) Educate relevant personnel on the risks of privilege escalation and kernel-level exploits to improve incident response readiness.