As EVs and semi-automated vehicles are becoming a bigger part of our lives, cybersecurity concerns are growing.
Just a year ago, the Autopilot of the Tesla Model X was hacked, and not just once.
In one instance, Israeli researchers at Ben Gurion Universitytricked the carby flashing “phantom” images on a road, wall or sign, causing it to unexpectedly brake or steer in the wrong direction.
A few months later,Lennert Wouters, a researcher at KU Leuven, “stole” a Tesla Model X in 90 seconds,Wiredreported.
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Having spotted a vulnerability in its keyless entry system, he only needed $300 in computer hardware items, including a Tesla body control module from eBay, and some coding.
Indeed, automated electric cars are much more prone to hacking than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, according toa new research paper, led by University of Georgia scientists.
Four reasons why
Their powertrain consists of multiple complex and integrated cyber-physical systems that require constant monitoring and control, to ensure safety.
Tools such as adaptive cruise control and auto-assist functions are parts of a networked infrastructure, which can be potentially accessed by third parties.
The same goes for the vehicles’ increased connectivity through charging points and smart grids.
Similarly, their enhanced infotainment systems allow for higher levels of exposure.
Signs that your EV might have been hacked
Jin Ye, the lead author, advises owners of automated EVs to keep in mind the following main signs:
These problems, of course, pose serious safety and functionality issues.
What can be done
The research suggests some essential techniques to protect such vehicles from cyber-attacks.
Better firewall, reliable hardware, secure software updates, and code reviews make up the majority.
Above all, Ye proposes the development of a cybersecurity monitoring system that will “detect, locate, diagnose, and mitigate cyberattacks.”
“Even though the research of vehicle cyber-security is still at an early stage, and the monitoring system cannot directly recover the system to a safety region, it can alert the driver to react in a timely fashion,” she remarked.
Do EVs excite your electrons? Do ebikes get your wheels spinning? Do self-driving cars get you all charged up?
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Story byIoanna Lykiardopoulou
Ioanna is a writer at TNW. She covers the full spectrum of the European tech ecosystem, with a particular interest in startups, sustainabili(show all)Ioanna is a writer at TNW. She covers the full spectrum of the European tech ecosystem, with a particular interest in startups, sustainability, green tech, AI, and EU policy. With a background in the humanities, she has a soft spot for social impact-enabling technologies.
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