Vulnerabilities Could Give Hackers Remote Access to VW, Audi Models

Vulnerabilities Could Give Hackers Remote Access to VW, Audi Models

Security researchers found that certain models from Volkswagen could be hacked and remotely controlled.

Security researchers have found several vulnerabilities in the infotainment system of some Volkswagen and Audi models, allowing them to remotely access the system and commandeer the microphone, navigation system and speakers.

Hackers Daan Keuper and Thijs Alkemade from Dutch firm Computest found the flaws in early 2017 after probing Harman-made infotainment systems in a 2015 model VW Golf GTW and Audi A3 Sportback e-tron. Both vehicles are made by the Volkswagen group.

The whitehat researchers were out to find ways to compromise an internet-connected car remotely and without user interaction. They found a flaw in the VW's in-vehicle infotainment system that can be remotely exploited if the vehicle connects to an attacker's Wi-Fi network.

Using the vulnerability, they were able to gain root access to the infotainment system's main processor, which is responsible for navigation and multimedia decoding. From there, they were able to control the RCC or radio and car-control unit, which could potentially allow an avenue for sending malicious messages to the Controller Area Network bus to manipulate vehicle controls such as the braking and steering system.

The researchers reported their findings to Volkswagen Group in mid-2017. In mid-April, the group wrote a letter to the researchers that appears to confirm the vulnerabilities they reported and suggested a patch was deployed on new models made after mid-2016.

"The objective of manipulating the steering and brake was not achieved. However, you did succeed in accessing the infotainment system and obtaining 'Root' authorizations. These administrator rights and modular infotainment matrix (MIB) are intended for development at Volkswagen and not for other people in a customer vehicle. The open interface on the Golf GTE and Audi A3 was closed by an update to the infotainment software from production week 22/2016 onwards," the letter said.

It is not clear at this time what Volkswagen did to address the flaws in models produced before mid-2016. Researchers suspect they are still vulnerable.

About the Author

Sydny Shepard is the Executive Editor of Campus Security & Life Safety.

Featured

  • Axis Communications Creates AI-powered Video Surveillance Orchestra

    What if cameras could not only see the world, but interpret it—and respond like orchestra musicians reading sheet music: instantly, precisely, and in perfect harmony? That’s what global network technology leader Axis Communications set to find out. Read Now

  • Report: Cyber Attackers Continue to Turn to AI-Based Tools to Avoid Detection

    Comcast Business recently released its 2025 Cybersecurity Threat Report, a comprehensive analysis of 34.6 billion cybersecurity events detected between June 1,2024 and May 31, 2025. Now in its third year, the report offers business leaders a unique perspective into the evolving threat landscape and provides actionable insights to help organizations strengthen their defenses and align cybersecurity with business risk. Read Now

  • Just as Expected

    GSX produced a wonderful tradeshow earlier this week. Monday was surprisingly strong in the morning, and the afternoon wasn’t bad at all. That’s Monday’s results and asking attendees to travel on Sunday. Just a quick hint, no one wants to give up their weekend to travel and set up an exhibit booth. I’m just saying. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • GSX
  • NOLA: The Crescent City

    Twenty years later we finds ourselves in New Orleans. Twenty years ago the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina forced exhibitors and attendees to look elsewhere for tradeshow floor space. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • GSX
  • Nothing Artificial About this Intelligence

    I have been looking forward to this year’s GSX show in New Orleans, the Cresent City, or if you prefer The Big Easy. It seems like quite a while since we’ve been here. Twenty years ago, ASIS, as it was known then was literally washed out of the city by someone known as Katrina. It is a good thing to come back to NOLA. Read Now

New Products

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.