How hackable is your car?
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The Most and Least Hackable Cars: A Cybersecurity Overview
Introduction to Car Cybersecurity
Modern technology comes at a price. On one hand, the innovations make people’s lives easier, but they also open new ways of causing harm, and cars are no exception. With the new systems being wholly computer-controlled, vehicles have become prone to cyber-attacks. According to a recent report by CNN, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, 2015 Cadillac Escalade, and 2014 Toyota Prius are rated the most ‘hackable’ vehicles, while the 2014 Dodge Viper and 2014 Audi A8 are the least ‘hackable’ among the 20 car models tested by automotive security researchers.
Understanding Vehicle Vulnerabilities
The problem with these cars lies in the fact that different systems, such as the infotainment and engine controls, are on the same network. If a driver downloads a virus onto their cellphone and subsequently connects via Bluetooth to their car, the virus can infect the network and potentially enter the engine control system. This vulnerability allows hackers to gain access to critical functions such as steering, engine control, and brakes, enabling them to control the car remotely, which poses significant risks to the occupants.
Why Some Cars are Safer
In contrast, the Audi A8 has its high-tech systems, such as adaptive cruise control, on different networks from its wireless communication systems. Similarly, the Dodge Viper incorporates very few computer-controlled components, making these vehicles safer and categorizing them as the least ‘hackable’.
Testing Methodology
UPDATE: Each car was tested under three categories:
- Attack Surface: This category includes the range of features that could be hacked, such as Bluetooth, WiFi, key fobs, and tire pressure monitoring systems.
- Network Architecture: This assesses the accessibility of these features within the vehicle's critical systems, including brakes and steering.
- Cyber Physical: This focuses on vehicle features that can be controlled wirelessly, such as automated braking and parking sensors.
