They are just two of the latest organizations to voice their concern
about software vulnerabilities in cars, which first came to light in
2013. These concerns are not unfounded.
New cars that go on sale are increasingly connected to the Internet
and mobile devices, with features such as being able to use your phone
to remotely start a car or get engine diagnostics. These features are
meant to add convenience for drivers, but they also give hackers more
opportunities to take control of vehicle systems.
Last year, Fiat Chrysler was forced to recall 1.4 million cars when
it was discovered their remote controls could be hacked into. In the
last few months, General Motors and BMW have issued important security
updates for some of their cars.
In its public service announcement, the FBI outlined the kinds of
hacks security researchers have been able to perform. In a target
vehicle traveling at low speeds (5-10 mph), researchers were able to
shutdown an engine as well as disable brakes and steering. In a target
vehicle traveling at any speed, they were able to control door locks,
radio, GPS and the turn signals.
“Although vulnerabilities may not always result in an attacker being able to access all parts of the system, the safety risk to consumers could increase significantly if the access involves the ability to manipulate critical vehicle control systems,” reads the advisory.
While identified vulnerabilities “have been addressed,” the FBI suggests you stay on your guard nevertheless. To keep your car safe, it recommends taking the following precautions:
• Try to stay aware of the latest recall notices affecting cars
• Ensure vehicle software is up to date
• Be careful when making any modifications to the car’s software
• Exercise discretion when connecting third-party devices, like smartphones or tablets, to your car
• Stay in control on who has physical access to your vehicles
“Although vulnerabilities may not always result in an attacker being able to access all parts of the system, the safety risk to consumers could increase significantly if the access involves the ability to manipulate critical vehicle control systems,” reads the advisory.
While identified vulnerabilities “have been addressed,” the FBI suggests you stay on your guard nevertheless. To keep your car safe, it recommends taking the following precautions:
• Try to stay aware of the latest recall notices affecting cars
• Ensure vehicle software is up to date
• Be careful when making any modifications to the car’s software
• Exercise discretion when connecting third-party devices, like smartphones or tablets, to your car
• Stay in control on who has physical access to your vehicles