Can Hackers Control my Car?

You might be behind the wheel, but fact is that in this technology driven world we live in, computers control our vehicles every function. Until a few years ago, securing a car meant slapping a club over your steering wheel, installing an industry recognised car alarm and taking the faceplate off the CD player. But as electronic systems evolve, vehicles today require a similar level of protection as e-commerce servers and even personal laptop computers.

With anywhere between 30 to 100 microprocessors appointed in most cars to control functions from braking to even the horn, modern vehicles are definitely vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Cars are dangerous enough, but when you throw in cyber-attacks in the mix, they become a significant reason for concern. All it takes is someone with basic computer skills and malicious intent to take control of your vehicle. And after gaining access, they can easily control everything from Bluetooth connections, cellular and Wi-Fi to even the songs that play on your radio. Not sure that your average motor trade insurance policy will cover car dealers for this!

Although critical systems of vehicles such as brakes, steering and throttle are located on a different technological platform than less secure infotainment and diagnostic systems, these two networks are somewhat connected, where a single breach to any of the two networks can compromise the safety of the entire vehicle. In light of these risks, car manufacturers are starting to secure vehicles in the same way as the information technology sector secures corporate servers. Chrysler for example has started to integrate their optional infotainment systems with mobile internet hotspots and hard drives, whereas OnStar – a world leader in vehicle telematics systems here in the U.K. has already made significant improvements to their already advanced systems.

Is your Car on the verge of being hacked?

Although the potential of car hacking is possible, there is no such known financial incentive for hacking vehicles yet. Most hackers are in the game to enhance their skills and demonstrate their hacking prowess, but there are a few thinks you can do to protect your vehicle.

• Opt for wireless systems – If you’re buying a new vehicle, it is highly recommended that you ask for wireless systems and familiarize yourself with their functionality by reviewing the car manual or checking online.
• Visit reputable repair shops and dealers – even though the low cost of repairs may seem tempting, it is important to investigate dealers and repair shops before trusting them with your vehicle. There are several unscrupulous garages that can easily manipulate your cars electronic systems to an extent that your vehicle is indeed in need of repairs that aren’t actually warranted.
• Protecting your information – apart from locking your vehicle and enabling the alarm, make sure that you don’t leave any important information in your vehicle such as passwords and even roadside assistance and even OnStar documents. Considering that one of the notable features of OnStar is to remotely shutdown your engine when reported stolen, you and your vehicle may be at risk if the passwords fall into the wrong hands.

Hacking a car practically can lead to dire consequences so it is best to never underestimate the power of technology and secure your vehicle accordingly.