Today's modern cars have as many as 100 microcomputers working at all times. And it's not just connectivity devices like OnStar and Android Auto that are prone to attack. All of your vehicle's systems are usually controlled by microcomputers that improve the functionality of your vehicle and overall driving experience. That state of the art traction system can be hacked into just like any other electronic device in your car that relies on a computer network.
Can These Vulnerabilities Be Dangerous?
Car hacking has become more advanced in recent years, with hackers becoming experts at taking over not just WiFi-based technologies but also the sensitive computer systems that move your car forward. There have been instances of hackers stalling or even stopping modern cars altogether just by using computer technology. Hackers can track GPS locations of specific vehicles simply by exploiting security weaknesses in things like UConnect (run via the Sprint network). Imagine someone being able to find your vehicle just by exploiting those systems. It's scary. You don't have to be a victim, though! Here are three solid ways that you can protect your vehicle.
3 Ways To Prevent Your Car From Being Hacked
Follow these few simple suggestions to improve your chances of avoiding a hack. While not all of these will work for your specific model - you should consult us or a manufacturer for more suggestions on your model - they will improve your chances of staying safe out there on the road.
- Avoid plugging in Random USB devices: USB ports are virtual havens for data, and hackers can easily exploit random USB devices to gain access to your car's sensitive systems. Security is of utmost importance here! Beware when plugging in those random USB devices. You might leave yourself open to attack.
- Insurance promises and dongles: Some car insurances are promising to lower your rates if you plug in one of their OBD dongles. On-Board Diagnostic devices are a gateway for hackers to exploit your car's systems and should never, ever under any circumstances be used to transmit sensitive information like these insurance companies are wanting to gain access to. Avoid!
- Manufacturer's Recommendations: Some people don't keep up with their modern connected car all that much, though they buy and drive it. Our advice is simple: Don't ignore your manufacturer's recommended software and security updates! Keep in good contact with your car's manufacturer and make sure that you always install the latest software that they have available for you. Yes, some of this software is going to transmit information, but it's also going to have the latest security updates based on what hackers have been up to lately. If hackers find a new way to exploit systems, then your manufacturer will find ways to combat that. Keep up to date with them.
Just performing these three simple actions can make your car much safer against hacker attacks and give you the confidence you need to trust your vehicle's most advanced connectivity features. These steps are also important components of safe driving! Remember that if a hacker gains access to your car's functional features, like braking for example, they can truly cause a dangerous situation out there on the highway. And no one wants to think that a hacker knows their GPS location. Make sure that you stay up to date on all the latest ways to combat hackers.
Request More Information About Safeguarding Your Vehicle. Don't let hackers ruin your day (or month) Contact our dealership in Richardson for the latest security information about your vehicle!
