We live in a world where everyday appliances and devices are now interconnected, giving rise to the so-called smart devices. So it’s no surprise that our cars eventually followed suit and became connected.
These smart cars, as they are called, are changing our driving experience and offer tremendous convenience. But with all that cool tech, comes new risks to think about. With more cars on the road equipped with Internet connectivity, GPS, and self-driving capabilities, they’re slowly becoming attractive targets for cybercriminals.
So, can a hacker really take control of your vehicle while you’re cruising on Route 66? Or steal your personal information from your car? In this article, we’ll look into the surprising cybersecurity risks that come with today’s smart cars and share some tips on how you can keep yourself safe. So let’s get to it!
The term “smart car” refers to a type of vehicle that has advanced technologies, such as sensors, Internet connectivity, and autonomous driving capabilities. These vehicles are capable of communicating with other devices, using GPS and navigation systems, and can even perform driving to a certain extent without human input.
With all these technologies, although they may enhance the driving experience, it also makes these smart automobiles more susceptible to cybersecurity issues.
The Rise of Smart Cars
When I was younger, the only connection my car had was connecting my Bluetooth radio to my phone. Today, smart cars are a game-changer for convenience, but that convenience can come at a price, as these vehicles are constantly connected. Whether through navigation, infotainment systems, or even autonomous driving features, this connectivity opens doors to both smart car safety innovations and potential risks.
Why Smart Cars are More Vulnerable Than Traditional Cars
Traditional cars depend primarily on mechanical components. They generally are not connected to anything, maybe only a phone to the car’s audio system via Bluetooth, so basically it operates in isolation.
Smart cars on the other hand are equipped with various interconnected systems, including infotainment systems, telematics, and autonomous driving features, and are often part of the broader network known as the Internet of Things (IoT).
This connectivity makes them prone to cyber threats, including where hackers can gain control of the vehicle, and target systems like braking, steering, and even door locks. Quite scary indeed.
A report by McKinsey shows that the more connected these vehicles are, the more likely they are to be hacked, especially through unsecured Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile apps. This shows how vulnerable smart car technology can be when compared to more traditional mechanical vehicles.
Common Vulnerabilities in Smart Car Technology
There are quite a few ways criminals can exploit smart cars. Some entry points include infotainment systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, and keyless entry and start systems. Infotainment systems in particular are an attractive target for cybercriminals because they usually lack proper encryption.
V2X systems, which are designed to allow cars to communicate with surrounding infrastructure, can be exploited if they are not properly secured. Below are a few vulnerabilities faced by smart cars that could not only put your personal information at risk, but also your safety as a driver as well.
Software vulnerabilities: Outdated software can contain security loopholes that hackers can exploit.
Wireless connections: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular connections can be vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Third-party apps: Apps downloaded from app stores can introduce malware or vulnerabilities.
Remote access: Remote access features, such as remote locking and unlocking, can be compromised by thieves hacking key fobs.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication: V2X systems, which enable cars to communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians, can be targeted by hackers. Cars can basically “talk” to surrounding infrastructure and to each other thanks to V2X connectivity, which makes roadways safer and more effective. But this also opens up a new avenue for cyberattacks to occur. Cybercriminals could intercept these communications, which can lead to accidents, or gaining access to your personal information.
Real-World Example of Smart Car Hacking
In 2015, two cyber researchers gained control of a Jeep Cherokee through remote hacking. They took control of its transmission, brakes, and steering. If that wasn’t scary enough, they took control of it while it was driving! Attacks like this have been done on various models, showing how vulnerable these connected smart cars are.
How to Protect Your Smart Car from Cyberattacks
Keeping your smart car safe, or at least safer, from cyber threats is totally doable with a few simple steps. Let’s break down some best practices to reduce the risk.
Update Software Regularly: Automakers frequently release security patches for smart car software. Ensure your vehicle’s system is always up-to-date.
Use Strong Passwords: For any connected apps or devices, use strong, unique passwords that are not easily guessable.
Disable Unused Features: If you’re not using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, turn them off. This reduces potential entry points for hackers.
Install a Vehicle Firewall: Similar to protecting a home network, some aftermarket solutions provide firewalls for connected vehicles to prevent unauthorized access.
Use security features: Take advantage of built-in security features such as encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.
Be mindful of physical access: Protect your car’s keys and avoid leaving it unlocked or unattended.
Consider professional security services: If you’re concerned about the security of your smart car, consider consulting with a cybersecurity professional.
Monitor for unusual behavior: If your car’s system behaves strangely (e.g., erratic controls, unauthorized access), it might be hacked. Act immediately by disconnecting it from the internet and visiting a dealership for a diagnostic check.
Install antivirus or anti-malware software: Some security companies now offer cybersecurity solutions for vehicles. Consider installing such a system in your car to safeguard against threats.
What are Automakers Doing to Improve Smart Car Security?
Automakers are aware of the cybersecurity risks smart cars face, and are taking steps to address them. From implementing built-in firewalls to improving encryption, they’re investing in research and development to improve vehicle security, and are collaborating with cybersecurity experts to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
Companies like Tesla, Ford, and General Motors have implemented security teams dedicated to developing secure software and ensuring over-the-air (OTA) updates to patch vulnerabilities. According to a study by Upstream Security, automakers are prioritizing security as a part of the vehicle design.
However, with technology evolving so rapidly, it’s unclear whether automakers are keeping up with cybersecurity challenges or just responding to emerging threats.
How can AI Help?
The security of connected vehicles is being improved in a big way by artificial intelligence (AI). AI can detect anomalies in a car’s system and can respond to cyber threats in real time before they become critical.
By analyzing huge amounts of data, AI can predict and prevent possible cyberattacks. This adds another layer of security to smart cars, making them safer, giving manufacturers and drivers a proactive way to keep their cars safe from hackers.
Conclusion
There is no getting around the fact that we can expect to see greater connectivity in cars in the future. This increase in connectivity in smart cars certainly brings greater convenience, but it also comes with risk.
However, with the right knowledge and tools, you can protect your vehicle from being hacked. Use the tools and recommendations outlined in this article, keep up with security updates, use strong passwords, and be proactive by always being on alert for anything out of the ordinary.
Key Takeaways
Smart cars offer convenience but come with cybersecurity risks.
Common vulnerabilities include V2X communication and infotainment systems.
Follow best practices like software updates and disabling unused features to protect your vehicle.
Automakers are increasingly focused on improving vehicle security, using AI and other technologies.
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