Auto Cybercrime and you
12 April 2023
By Joy Pearson
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As cars become more connected, so too does the risk of cybercrime. Hacking a car can lead to theft, remote control of the vehicle, or even physical harm to the driver and passengers. In today's post, we will explore the ins and outs of car hacking and what you need to know to keep yourself safe on the road.
Car hacking is the act of gaining unauthorized access to a vehicle's computer system or other electronic components. This can include anythings from stealing personal information from the car's infotainment system to remotely controlling the car's acceleration and braking systems.
As scary as it sounds, there are several ways that cars can be hacked. One common method is through the car's infotainment system. Hackers can gain access to the car's network through vulnerabilities in the entertainment system, such as unsecured WI-FI connections or outdated software. Another way cars can be hacked it through the car's diagnostic port. This is the same port that mechanics use to diagnose problems with the car. Hackers can use this port to gain access to the car's computer system and control various components, such as the engine and brakes.
Some car manufacturers have introduced features that allow remote access to the car's computer system, such as mobile apps that can control certain functions of the car. If these features are not properly secured, hackers can gain access to the car's computer system and control various functions.
Now, there are several ways to protect yourself from car hacking. The first one being to keep you car's software up to date. Make sure to install any software updates that are released by the car manufacturer. These updates often contain security patches that can help protect against hacking. You can also keep it simple by using a reputable mechanic. When getting your car serviced, make sure to use a reputable mechanic who takes cyber security seriously. They should be using up-to-date software and protocols to keep your car safe.
Be cautious with third-party devices. If you are using third-party devices, such as a Bluetooth adapter or aftermarket stereo, make sure they are from a reputable source and have been tested for cyber security vulnerabilities. If you are using the car's wifi connection, use a VPN to encrypt your traffic and protect your personal information from hackers. Just be careful with mobile apps, if you car has a mobile app, make sure to use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access.
Finally, be cautious of public WI-FI. Avoid using public WI-FI to connect to your car's infotainment system, as these connections are often unsecured and can be easily hacked.
Car hacking is a real threat that can lead to serious consequences. By taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself from this type of cybercrime. Always keep your car's software up to date, use reputable mechanics, be cautious with third-party devices, use a VPN, and be careful with mobile apps and public WI-FI. By following these tips, you can stay safe on the road and prevent hackers from gaining access to you car's computer system.