Modern vehicles are no longer just machines—they’re computers on wheels. With the rise of connected cars, autonomous driving features, and software-based vehicle controls, cybersecurity threats in the auto industry have become a pressing concern. Hackers now target vehicles much like they target traditional computer networks, exploiting vulnerabilities that can put drivers, passengers, and entire infrastructures at risk.
But what are the biggest threats? And, more importantly, how can you defend against them? Let’s break down the top seven car cybersecurity threats and explore ways to stay protected.
1. Remote Hacking of Vehicle Controls
A hacker doesn’t need to be physically near your car to take control of it. In 2015, cybersecurity researchers famously demonstrated how they could remotely disable a Jeep Cherokee’s brakes and transmission from miles away. This alarming vulnerability forced Chrysler to recall 1.4 million vehicles.
How to Defend Against It:
- Keep your car’s software up to date. Manufacturers regularly release patches to fix security flaws.
- Disable unnecessary wireless features such as Wi-Fi hotspots when not in use.
- Activate VPN when going online. With VeePN, your hotspot will be protected. Even the free VeePN version will do. After activating VPN apps, data is encrypted and can no longer be intercepted, infected or replaced along the way.
- Be cautious about third-party apps or modifications that interact with your vehicle’s systems.
2. Keyless Entry and Relay Attacks
Keyless entry is convenient—but also a hacker’s dream. In a relay attack, criminals use signal-boosting devices to trick your car into thinking the key fob is nearby, allowing them to unlock and even start the vehicle without the owner’s knowledge. Research shows that nearly 50% of stolen cars in the UK in 2022 were taken using keyless entry exploits.
How to Defend Against It:
- Store your key fob in a Faraday pouch (a signal-blocking case) when not in use.
- Use a steering wheel lock for extra security.
- Turn off passive keyless entry in your car’s settings if possible.
3. Malware in Infotainment and Connectivity Systems
Your car’s infotainment system does more than play music—it often connects to your phone, GPS, and even critical vehicle functions. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in these systems to inject malware, leading to data theft or even control over certain vehicle components.
How to Defend Against It:
- Avoid connecting untrusted USB devices to your car’s ports.
- Only download updates from official manufacturer sources.
- Be wary of public Wi-Fi networks when using connected features.
4. GPS Spoofing and Navigation Manipulation
Imagine driving to a familiar destination, but your GPS suddenly misleads you. This isn’t a glitch—it’s called GPS spoofing, where attackers send fake signals to trick a vehicle’s navigation system. This technique can be used in carjackings, military disruptions, or even just to cause chaos on the roads.
How to Defend Against It:
- Use secondary navigation sources (like a smartphone) to cross-check routes.
- Stay aware of sudden, suspicious changes in GPS directions.
- If available, enable encrypted GPS features in your vehicle.
5. Over-the-Air (OTA) Update Exploits
Many new cars receive software updates wirelessly—just like a smartphone. While convenient, this creates a risk. Hackers could intercept and manipulate these updates, inserting malicious code that could affect a car’s performance or safety.
How to Defend Against It:
- Never delay software updates—security patches are crucial.
- Download updates only from official manufacturer sources.
- If possible, verify update authenticity through multiple channels (e.g., dealership confirmation).
6. Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication Vulnerabilities
Cars are increasingly designed to communicate with each other to improve traffic safety and efficiency. However, this Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication network can be exploited to inject false data, leading to potential crashes or traffic disruptions.
How to Defend Against It:
- Ensure your car uses secure communication protocols (such as encrypted signals).
- Stay updated on recalls or security patches related to V2V systems.
- Disable V2V features if they’re not essential for your driving needs.
7. Data Theft from Connected Vehicles
Cars today store massive amounts of personal data—contacts, addresses, call logs, even credit card details used for toll payments. Cybercriminals target these systems to extract sensitive information, often without drivers realizing it.
How to Defend Against It:
- Wipe personal data from your car’s system before selling or servicing it.
- Use strong passwords for connected vehicle accounts.
- Disable automatic connections to third-party devices whenever possible.
The Road Ahead: Staying Safe in a Connected World
Car cybersecurity threats are evolving as fast as vehicle technology itself. As we move toward self-driving cars and deeper integration with smart cities, security risks will only become more complex. The good news? Manufacturers and regulators are stepping up.
In 2021, the UN introduced new cybersecurity regulations requiring automakers to implement robust security measures. Additionally, companies like Tesla and Ford are actively improving their cybersecurity defenses with AI-driven threat detection.
For car owners, the key takeaway is simple: stay informed, stay updated, and take proactive security measures. The future of driving is exciting, but safety—both physical and digital—must always come first.
