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The age of enhanced vehicular technology is upon us. It is no more about just going from one place to another. Cars have become smart gadgets with mechanisms that help people find their way, play music, and even park themselves. However, as with any advancement, there are ways to make the vehicles more digital. There are ways to make the vehicles prone to attacks. So how does one keep their high-tech vehicle safe in this digital vortex, which is, by all means, a connected world? What is the answer? Let's find out!
Many new features are internet-enabled to pour more power into vehicles. This consequently makes them also vulnerable to hackers' attacks. These come in different forms. For instance, a hacker can access the car's infotainment system or interrupt critical operations such as the car turning and braking. It's not only a matter of safeguarding one's information anymore; the fight is also now for safety while driving.
It may sound like a no-brainer but how many of us have bothered to do this in the other spheres of our lives? Many of the new-generation vehicles have factory-set default passwords for features such as Wi-fi or user accounts. In securing the vehicle, changing these default passwords should be the first course of action. Besides that, make sure to create a complex and different password you have not created before for other accounts.
Similarly to smartphones or laptops, connected automobiles are also dependent on software applications for their operation. Manufacturers issue software updates regularly to address bugs and security issues. One should not ignore these updates as it could expose the car to threats.
63% of vehicle cyber-attacks target vulnerabilities that are already well-known and could have been solved by a software update. Either adjust your car to perform updates automatically or routinely contact your dealer.
Almost all modern navy-equipped vehicles allow connection to additional services. Although they can be helpful, these apps are usually capable of causing a threat if they are not checked beforehand.
According to a 2022 study, more than 40% of connected vehicle owners have installed at least one third-party application on their device without verifying its authenticity.
Connected vehicles present thrilling possibilities for the future of transportation. With an increase in the number of vehicles that go online, the likelihood of a cyber-attack will equally increase.
Yes, your car is clever, but always 'drive' smart, and security 'smart' will not only help you navigate challenges but also ensure you win the race!
