CVE-2025-32062: Bluetooth Stack Buffer Overflow RCE Flaw

CVE-2025-32062 Overview

CVE-2025-32062 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the Bluetooth stack developed by Alps Alpine, which is integrated into the Infotainment ECU manufactured by Bosch. The vulnerability stems from improper boundary validation of user-supplied data when processing packets on an established upper layer L2CAP (Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol) channel. An attacker within Bluetooth range can exploit this flaw to achieve remote code execution with root privileges on the Infotainment ECU.

This vulnerability was first identified on the Nissan Leaf ZE1 manufactured in 2020, representing a significant security concern for connected vehicle systems.

Critical Impact

Remote code execution with root privileges on vehicle infotainment systems via Bluetooth proximity attack, potentially enabling full control of the Infotainment ECU and lateral movement to other vehicle systems.

Affected Products

• Bosch Infotainment ECU with Alps Alpine Bluetooth Stack
• Nissan Leaf ZE1 (2020 model year)
• Other vehicles potentially using the same Alps Alpine Bluetooth stack implementation

Discovery Timeline

• 2026-02-15 - CVE-2025-32062 published to NVD
• 2026-02-18 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2025-32062

Vulnerability Analysis

This vulnerability is classified as CWE-121 (Stack-based Buffer Overflow). The flaw resides within the Bluetooth stack's L2CAP packet processing logic. When a malformed or specially crafted packet is received on an established upper layer L2CAP channel, the code fails to properly validate the boundaries of user-supplied data before copying it to a stack buffer.

The attack requires the attacker to be within Bluetooth range (approximately 10-100 meters depending on Bluetooth class) of the target vehicle. Once a Bluetooth connection is established, the attacker can send crafted L2CAP packets that overflow the stack buffer, allowing them to overwrite the return address and redirect execution flow to attacker-controlled code.

The adjacent network attack vector combined with no required privileges or user interaction makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in scenarios where vehicles are parked in public locations or during normal driving operations.

Root Cause

The root cause of CVE-2025-32062 is the absence of proper input validation and boundary checking in the Alps Alpine Bluetooth stack when handling incoming L2CAP data packets. The vulnerable code path accepts data from the Bluetooth interface without verifying that the received data length does not exceed the allocated stack buffer size. This allows an attacker to supply data that extends beyond the intended memory boundaries, corrupting adjacent stack memory including saved return addresses.

Attack Vector

The attack vector for this vulnerability is through the Adjacent Network (Bluetooth). An attacker must be within Bluetooth radio range of the target vehicle to exploit this vulnerability. The exploitation process involves:

1. Establishing a Bluetooth connection with the vehicle's Infotainment ECU
2. Creating an L2CAP channel connection to the vulnerable service
3. Sending specially crafted packets containing overflow data targeting the stack buffer
4. Overwriting the return address to redirect execution to shellcode embedded in the packet
5. Achieving remote code execution with root privileges on the Infotainment ECU

The vulnerability does not require any user interaction or prior authentication, making it exploitable against any vehicle with vulnerable firmware that has Bluetooth enabled. For detailed technical analysis, refer to the Black Hat Presentation on Nissan Leaf and the PCA Cybersecurity Advisory.

Detection Methods for CVE-2025-32062

Indicators of Compromise

• Unexpected Bluetooth connection attempts or established connections to the vehicle infotainment system
• Anomalous L2CAP packet sizes or malformed Bluetooth traffic patterns
• Unusual processes or services running on the Infotainment ECU with root privileges
• Crash logs or system instability in the Bluetooth stack components
• Evidence of unauthorized firmware modifications or persistence mechanisms

Detection Strategies

• Monitor Bluetooth connection logs for connections from unknown or suspicious device addresses
• Implement network traffic analysis at the Bluetooth protocol level to detect oversized or malformed L2CAP packets
• Deploy endpoint detection solutions capable of monitoring embedded automotive systems for anomalous behavior
• Review infotainment system logs for evidence of stack corruption, crashes, or unexpected restarts
• Perform periodic firmware integrity checks to detect unauthorized modifications

Monitoring Recommendations

• Enable verbose logging on vehicle infotainment systems where supported
• Implement vehicle fleet monitoring solutions that can aggregate and analyze telemetry from connected vehicles
• Deploy intrusion detection systems (IDS) designed for automotive CAN bus and Bluetooth protocols
• Establish baseline behavioral profiles for Bluetooth communications to identify deviations

How to Mitigate CVE-2025-32062

Immediate Actions Required

• Disable Bluetooth functionality on affected infotainment systems until a patch is available
• Avoid parking vehicles in high-risk public areas where attackers could be within Bluetooth range
• Contact the vehicle manufacturer or dealer to inquire about firmware updates addressing this vulnerability
• Consider implementing network segmentation within the vehicle to isolate the infotainment system from critical vehicle systems
• Monitor for any security bulletins from Nissan, Bosch, or Alps Alpine regarding this vulnerability

Patch Information

As of the last NVD update on 2026-02-18, specific patch information from the vendors has not been published. Vehicle owners should monitor official channels from Nissan, Bosch, and Alps Alpine for firmware updates that address CVE-2025-32062. Additional technical details and vendor advisories can be found in the PCA Cybersecurity Advisory on Bosch Vulnerabilities.

Workarounds

• Disable Bluetooth on the vehicle's infotainment system through the settings menu
• If Bluetooth cannot be fully disabled, remove all paired devices and disable discoverability mode
• Implement physical security measures when parking in public areas to reduce proximity attack opportunities
• Monitor vehicle behavior for signs of compromise such as unexpected system behavior or unauthorized configuration changes
• Contact your dealership to request information about over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities for security patches