How to Protect Your Car From Hackers: A Modern Driver’s Guide to Cybersecurity
Today’s vehicles are more than just engines and wheels; they are sophisticated computers packed with advanced technology. From GPS navigation and Bluetooth connectivity to remote start apps on your smartphone, these features offer incredible convenience. However, this increased connectivity also opens the door to a new and growing threat: car hacking.
Just like a personal computer or smartphone, your car’s systems can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. Understanding these risks is the first step toward protecting yourself, your data, and your vehicle.
Understanding the Vulnerabilities: How Hackers Gain Access
A hacker doesn’t need to be a master mechanic to compromise a modern vehicle. They exploit the digital entry points that make our cars so convenient. The most common attack vectors include:
- Keyless Entry and Start Systems: This is one of the most widespread vulnerabilities. Hackers use a technique called a “relay attack,” where they use a device to capture the signal from your key fob (even if it’s inside your house) and relay it to another device near your car, tricking the vehicle into thinking the key is present. This allows them to unlock and start your car in seconds.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: Your car’s infotainment system often has its own Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth connection. If these connections are unsecured, they can provide a direct line for a hacker to access the vehicle’s internal network, potentially allowing them to access personal data or manipulate in-car systems.
- The On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Port: This is the port mechanics use to diagnose engine trouble. However, third-party devices like insurance trackers or performance monitors that plug into this port can be poorly secured. A vulnerability in one of these dongles could grant a hacker deep access to your car’s core functions, including its engine control unit (ECU).
- Connected Smartphone Apps: The official app from your car manufacturer lets you lock, unlock, and even start your car remotely. If your phone is compromised with malware or your app account has a weak password, a criminal could gain full remote control over these convenient features.
What’s at Stake? The Real-World Impact of Car Hacking
The consequences of a vehicle cyberattack range from inconvenient to dangerous. Depending on their level of access, a hacker could:
- Steal your personal data: Contacts, call logs, and location history are often synced to a car’s infotainment system.
- Track your movements: By accessing the car’s GPS, an attacker can monitor your location in real-time.
- Unlock and steal the vehicle: Relay attacks and app-based hacks make car theft easier than ever.
- Eavesdrop on conversations: Some attacks can activate the in-car microphone for surveillance.
- Interfere with vehicle functions: In the most severe (though still rare) scenarios, skilled hackers have demonstrated the ability to remotely control a car’s acceleration, braking, and steering.
Actionable Steps to Secure Your Vehicle
While the threat is real, you are not powerless. Implementing a few simple security habits can dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
Protect Your Key Fob. The single most effective way to prevent relay attacks is to block your key fob’s signal when you’re not using it. Store your key fob in a Faraday pouch or a metal box at home. These signal-blocking containers are inexpensive and highly effective.
Manage Your Wireless Connections. Treat your car’s wireless networks like your home network. Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your car’s infotainment system when you are not actively using them. This reduces the number of entry points for potential attackers. Avoid connecting to untrusted public Wi-Fi networks with your car.
Secure Your Smartphone App. Your car’s mobile app is a key to your vehicle. Use a strong, unique password for the app account and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if it is offered. Be vigilant about phishing emails pretending to be from your car’s manufacturer.
Be Cautious with the OBD-II Port. Think carefully before plugging any third-party device into your car’s diagnostic port. Only use devices from reputable, well-known manufacturers that have a strong track record for security. If you no longer use a device, unplug it.
Keep Your Car’s Software Updated. Just like your phone, your car receives software updates from the manufacturer. These updates often contain critical security patches that fix newly discovered vulnerabilities. Install software updates as soon as they become available. Check with your dealer to ensure your car’s firmware is current.
Practice Good Digital Hygiene. Never plug an unknown USB drive into your car’s port, as it could contain malware designed to infect the infotainment system. Similarly, be cautious about which apps you download and connect to your vehicle’s system.
As our cars become ever more connected, vehicle cybersecurity will only grow in importance. By taking these proactive steps, you can enjoy the benefits of modern automotive technology while keeping yourself, your data, and your vehicle safe and secure.
Source: https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/automotive-security-2025/54562/
