Drivers Safety In Danger! Software In Cars Exploited By Hackers

Drivers Safety In Danger! Software In Cars Exploited By Hackers

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In the automobile world technologies are improving with the speed of the light. However, the advantages of modern innovations come hand in hand with some hidden security threats. Since every modern car comes equipped with complex computer equipment, it is easy to say that the cars are no more secure. As you can guess, cyber criminals have managed to penetrate not only into home and company computers, but now they have targeted security gaps in new cars.

With the introduction of onboard computers and power optimization systems designed to monitor fuel levels and lower the levels of consumption, anti-lock braking systems, GPS navigation, and many others, the advanced technologies presented a new area for hackers to develop their fraudulent activities. Adding software to latest models of cars also included some risk of speculation with they new systems. However, software developers are working intensely on improving the software and making it as perfect as possible. Not only that, but they put all their efforts into making it impossible to penetrate into the systems. Despite all the work of the developers, the problem is in the fact that due to the complex structure of the software it is almost impossible to find all possible vulnerabilities and thus there will still be unexpected problems with the system.

"The auto industry is experiencing a convergence of consumer and automotive electronics. Consumers are increasingly expecting the same experiences in-vehicle as they do with the latest connected consumer and mobile devices.

However, as the trend for ubiquitous connectivity grows, so does the potential for security vulnerabilities," explained Georg Doll, senior director for automotive solutions at Wind River.

McAfee together with Wind River and ESCRYPT decided to conduct a detailed research and find more details about the problems and risks that might occur with software systems installed in vehicles. The analysis resulted in a report entitled "Caution: Malware Ahead". It was established that a cyber criminal can perform some of the activities below, if he decides to target your car:

* he can find the location of the car
* using a mobile phone he can unlock a car
* he can also remotely start the car
* he can stop your car from moving - again remotely
* he can interrupt the work of the navigation system
* a hacker can also gain access to the information saved on your Bluetooth system

"As more and more functions get embedded in the digital technology of automobiles, the threat of attack and malicious manipulation increases," claimed Stuart McClure, senior vice president and general manager, McAfee. "Many examples of research-based hacks show the potential threats and depth of compromise that expose the consumer. It's one thing to have your email or laptop compromised but having your car hacked could translate to dire risks to your personal safety," he said.

Unquestioned as it is, security is the first and the most important requirement of users. Due to this fact, software developers have to pay special attention and continue working in the sphere of improving not only the technological level, but also reducing the rick associated with technical vulnerabilities.

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