Car Infotainment Systems Could Be Susceptible to Hacking
With the advent of advanced in-car technology comes the downfalls of hackers looking to do malicious things. Some experts are already expressing concern that the use of advanced infotainment systems by automakers worldwide could leave new-generation vehicles open to hacking.
Recently a pair of scientists from the University of San Diego and the University of Washington were successful in hacking into a vehicle’s safety system through its infotainment setup, revealing a clear vulnerability with the technology. And even though infotainment such as the vehicle’s navigation and Bluetooth are built to be separate from a vehicle’s safety system, this doesn’t mean that they’re invulnerable to hacking.
The concerns aren’t that hackers can take full control of a vehicle, but could unlock or even start a car; but worse, brakes and throttles are now being controlled by computers so it could be possible that those systems can be compromised as well.
As we all know with all the rampant hacking that has been going on recently, building security into any new-generation technology is difficult. Hackers will always find a way; and unless vehicle manufacturers are willing to update their software and firmware on a regular basis, there’s a strong potential that coming up with a single standard for cyber security will not be easy.
Worst of all, NHTSA isn’t equipped to test today’s advanced vehicle electronic systems.
[Source: Detroit News]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation