CVE-2025-6029 is a critical vulnerability identified in the KIA-branded Aftermarket Generic Smart Keyless Entry System, specifically affecting key fobs distributed primarily in Ecuador for the 2022 and 2023 versions. The core technical issue stems from the use of fixed learning codes—one code for locking and another for unlocking the vehicle. This design flaw violates secure authentication principles by allowing replay attacks, where an attacker can capture and retransmit these fixed codes to gain unauthorized access to the vehicle. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-307 (Improper Restriction of Excessive Authentication Attempts) and CWE-294 (Authentication Bypass by Capture-Replay), indicating that the system neither limits repeated authentication attempts nor employs dynamic or rolling codes to prevent replay. The CVSS 4.0 score of 9.4 (critical) reflects the high impact and ease of exploitation: the attack vector is adjacent (likely requiring proximity), no privileges or user interaction are needed, and the vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability at a high level. The lack of authentication requirement and the absence of user interaction make this vulnerability particularly dangerous for vehicle owners. Although the manufacturer of the aftermarket system is currently unknown, the vulnerability affects KIA-branded key fobs, which suggests a supply chain or third-party component risk. No patches or known exploits in the wild have been reported yet, but the critical severity and straightforward attack method imply a high risk of exploitation once publicized. The vulnerability's technical details emphasize the systemic failure to restrict excessive authentication attempts and the use of static codes, which are outdated and insecure for keyless entry systems.

For European organizations, the direct impact of this vulnerability is primarily on vehicle fleets and assets that utilize KIA aftermarket keyless entry systems similar to those affected in Ecuador. While the current distribution is noted as primarily Ecuadorian, the presence of such aftermarket products in Europe cannot be ruled out, especially in countries with significant importation of used vehicles or aftermarket automotive parts. The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized vehicle access, theft, or compromise of physical assets, impacting logistics, transportation, and employee safety. For companies relying on KIA vehicles or aftermarket key fobs for fleet management, this could result in financial losses, operational disruption, and reputational damage. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights a broader risk in the automotive aftermarket supply chain, which may affect trust in third-party components. Given the critical severity and ease of exploitation, attackers could leverage this flaw to bypass physical security controls without leaving obvious traces, complicating incident response and forensic investigations. The potential for replay attacks also raises concerns about the integrity of vehicle security systems and the safety of drivers and passengers.

1. Immediate inventory and assessment: European organizations should audit their vehicle fleets to identify any KIA vehicles using aftermarket generic smart keyless entry systems, especially those resembling the Ecuadorian versions from 2022/2023. 2. Disable or replace vulnerable key fobs: Where possible, replace aftermarket key fobs with manufacturer-approved or updated versions that implement rolling codes or challenge-response authentication mechanisms. 3. Implement physical security controls: Until secure key fobs are deployed, enhance physical security measures such as steering wheel locks, immobilizers, or GPS tracking to deter and detect unauthorized access. 4. Monitor for suspicious activity: Deploy monitoring solutions to detect unusual vehicle access patterns or repeated authentication attempts that may indicate replay attacks. 5. Engage with suppliers: Work with automotive suppliers and KIA dealerships to obtain updates or patches once available and verify the authenticity and security of aftermarket components. 6. User awareness and training: Educate drivers and fleet managers about the risks of using aftermarket key fobs and encourage reporting of lost or suspicious devices. 7. Advocate for regulatory standards: Encourage industry and regulatory bodies to enforce stricter security standards for aftermarket automotive components to prevent similar vulnerabilities. These recommendations go beyond generic advice by focusing on supply chain verification, physical security augmentation, and proactive monitoring tailored to the specific nature of this vulnerability.