CVE-2025-34251 is an authentication bypass vulnerability categorized under CWE-269 (Improper Privilege Management) and CWE-288 (Authentication Bypass). The flaw resides in Tesla's Telematics Control Unit (TCU) firmware versions prior to 2025.14. The TCU runs the Android Debug Bridge daemon (adbd) with root privileges. Although Tesla implemented a lockdown mechanism that disables adb shell access to prevent unauthorized command execution, this lockdown does not disable adb push/pull and adb forward commands. These remaining adb functionalities allow an attacker with physical access to the vehicle's exposed USB port to transfer arbitrary files to writable locations on the TCU. The attacker can then overwrite critical kernel parameters such as uevent_helper or /proc/sys/kernel/hotplug, which control execution of scripts with root privileges. By manipulating these parameters, the attacker can execute arbitrary scripts as root, effectively gaining full control over the TCU and potentially the vehicle's telematics functions. The vulnerability does not require any authentication or user interaction, but physical access to the USB port is mandatory. The CVSS 4.0 base score is 8.6, reflecting high severity due to the potential for complete system compromise and the difficulty of remote exploitation. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains significant given the privileged nature of the flaw and the widespread use of Tesla vehicles. The vulnerability affects all firmware versions prior to 2025.14, and Tesla has presumably addressed the issue in that release. The exposed USB port and root-level adbd daemon represent a critical attack surface that could be leveraged for persistent unauthorized access or malicious modifications to vehicle telematics and control systems.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the security and integrity of Tesla vehicles used in corporate fleets, logistics, or employee transportation. An attacker with physical access could gain root control over the TCU, potentially enabling unauthorized tracking, data exfiltration, or manipulation of telematics data. This could lead to breaches of sensitive operational information, disruption of vehicle communications, or even safety risks if telematics control is leveraged maliciously. The impact extends to reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR if personal data is compromised), and financial losses due to vehicle downtime or remediation costs. Given the high adoption of Tesla vehicles in European markets, especially in countries with strong automotive industries and green transport initiatives, the threat could affect a broad range of sectors including automotive, logistics, and corporate transportation services. The requirement for physical access limits remote exploitation but increases the importance of physical security controls. The vulnerability also raises concerns about insider threats or theft scenarios where attackers could exploit the exposed USB interface to compromise vehicles.

1. Immediate firmware update: Organizations should ensure all Tesla vehicles are updated to firmware version 2025.14 or later, which addresses this vulnerability. 2. Physical security controls: Restrict physical access to vehicles, especially the USB ports connected to the TCU, through secure parking, surveillance, and access control measures. 3. USB port protection: Where feasible, physically block or disable unused USB ports on the TCU to prevent unauthorized connections. 4. Monitoring and detection: Implement monitoring for unusual telematics behavior or unauthorized USB connections, possibly integrating vehicle telemetry logs with security information and event management (SIEM) systems. 5. Incident response planning: Prepare response procedures for suspected physical tampering or compromise of vehicle telematics units. 6. Vendor engagement: Coordinate with Tesla for timely updates and security advisories, and request additional hardening or security features for future TCU firmware releases. 7. Employee awareness: Educate staff about the risks of physical access attacks and the importance of securing company vehicles. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on physical security, proactive monitoring, and vendor collaboration tailored to this specific vulnerability.