The FBI issued a public service announcement this week to warn drivers about the dangers of car hacking. The notice tells drivers how to prevent cybersecurity attacks and what to do if their vehicles get attacked.
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According to the statement, vehicles have become "increasingly vulnerable to remote exploits" thanks to connectivity features. Wireless functions—including keyless entry and ignition, tire pressure monitoring, infotainment, navigation, and diagnostic systems—can allow bad guys to remotely access cars. Drivers should be careful when connecting third-party devices to ports in their vehicles, the FBI says, as these could introduce vulnerabilities.
The government also says to be cautious when installing updates recommended by automakers. A criminal may send illegitimate emails to owners and trick them into downloading malicious software. To prevent this from happening, drivers should be careful of downloading software from third-party websites or file-sharing programs, and should always check the vehicle manufacturer's website to ensure a software update really is needed. It's a good idea to use a trusted USB or SD card when downloading and installing software for a car.
A potential cybersecurity attack shouldn't be taken lightly. Drivers who think they've been hacked should check for outstanding vehicle recalls. They should also contact the manufacturer of their vehicles or an authorized dealer, as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the local FBI field office.
A number of security scares have come to light in just the past several months. Two hackers demonstrated how they were able to remotely control a Jeep Cherokee through its Uconnect infotainment system, and experimenters also took hold of a Tesla Model S. Both automakers have subsequently taken steps to fix the problem. Also, Nissan shut down its mobile app for the Leaf EV following a security breach.
Source: FBI
When I tell people I write about cars, the most common reply I receive is “Really?” I guess I never strike people as a car type as I drive down the freeway in the right lane going 60 mph in my old SUV. My gripes about driving in city traffic and fast drivers don’t help my case, either. For a time, the only cars I liked were old cars. Not old as in "classic" or "vintage," but as in well-worn. My first appreciation of cars came when I drove a very old Ford pickup. It wasn't perfect: I used a booster seat to reach the gas pedal, and the turn signal once fell off in my hand as I was learning to drive. But the thing I valued most was the memories. It took several years for me to truly become a "car person." Being a long-time writer and an avid reader has helped me develop a healthy curiosity and a desire to know how things work. This has made cars one of the most fascinating points of study for me because they are such intricate machines. I am interested in how cars can reach 200 mph, how they can run on hydrogen, and how they can drive and park on their own. I also enjoy learning how cars can solve problems whether it be in the form of reducing pollution, minimizing traffic, or helping people stay connected on the road. Yes, maybe I’m not a gearhead. Perhaps I’m a car nerd. Either way, I very much enjoy writing about cars and helping people stay in tune with the automotive industry. I wouldn't want to be writing about anything else. And don’t get me wrong: I know how to drool over a hot car. I am fascinated by the Tesla Model S, awed by the Lamborghini Veneno, and am hopelessly obsessed with the Audi R8.
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