CVE-2025-8474 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified in the Alpine iLX-507 car infotainment system, specifically within its Apple CarPlay protocol implementation. The flaw arises due to insufficient validation of the length of user-supplied data before copying it into a fixed-length buffer on the stack. This lack of proper bounds checking allows an attacker with physical access to the device to overflow the buffer, leading to arbitrary code execution with root privileges. Notably, exploitation does not require any authentication or user interaction, making the attack vector relatively straightforward for someone physically present. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 (Stack-based Buffer Overflow) and has a CVSS v3.0 base score of 6.8, indicating a medium severity level. The attack surface is limited to the Apple CarPlay interface on the Alpine iLX-507 running version 6.0.000. Although no known exploits are currently observed in the wild, the potential for root-level compromise poses a significant risk to the integrity and availability of the affected device. Given the nature of the device as an in-car infotainment system, successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized control over system functions, potential disruption of vehicle-related services, or further lateral movement into connected vehicle networks.

For European organizations, especially those with fleets of vehicles equipped with Alpine iLX-507 devices, this vulnerability presents a tangible risk. Compromise of these infotainment systems could lead to unauthorized code execution with root privileges, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate vehicle systems, disrupt operations, or exfiltrate sensitive data stored or processed by the device. In sectors such as logistics, transportation, and emergency services, where vehicle uptime and reliability are critical, exploitation could result in operational downtime or safety hazards. Additionally, the physical access requirement means that insider threats or attackers with temporary physical proximity could exploit the vulnerability. The lack of authentication and user interaction requirements further lowers the barrier for exploitation. While the vulnerability does not directly affect enterprise IT infrastructure, the interconnected nature of modern vehicles and their integration with corporate networks could provide a pivot point for broader attacks if proper network segmentation is not enforced.

Given the absence of an official patch at the time of this report, European organizations should implement several targeted mitigations: 1) Restrict physical access to vehicles equipped with Alpine iLX-507 devices, especially in high-risk environments, to prevent unauthorized exploitation. 2) Disable or limit Apple CarPlay functionality on these devices where feasible, particularly in vehicles used in sensitive or critical operations. 3) Employ network segmentation and strict firewall rules to isolate vehicle infotainment systems from corporate IT networks, minimizing lateral movement opportunities. 4) Monitor vehicle systems for unusual behavior or signs of compromise, including unexpected reboots or anomalous network traffic originating from the infotainment device. 5) Engage with Alpine and authorized dealers to obtain updates or firmware patches as soon as they become available, and plan for timely deployment. 6) Train personnel on the risks associated with physical access attacks and enforce strict vehicle security policies. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on physical security, network isolation, and operational controls tailored to the automotive environment.