The Connected Car Under Siege: Understanding Cyber Attacks on Vehicles

As modern vehicles evolve into highly connected digital platforms, they become vulnerable to the same cybersecurity threats that have plagued computers and smartphones for decades. Today’s cars integrate everything from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to sensors, cameras, and complex software, making them increasingly susceptible to cyber attacks. Below, we explore some of the most common cyber threats targeting vehicles and how hackers exploit these vulnerabilities.

1. Key Fob Hijacking and Relay Attacks

Wireless key fobs, which allow drivers to unlock and start their cars remotely, are a prime target for hackers. In relay attacks, criminals use devices to amplify the signal from a key fob, even if it is located inside a home, tricking the car into unlocking and starting. These attacks are silent, fast, and leave little trace.

Impact:

• Theft of the vehicle
• Unauthorized access to personal items inside the car
• Bypassing the need for physical keys

Mitigation Tips:

• Store key fobs in Faraday pouches to block signals.
• Disable passive keyless entry when not needed.
• Regularly update car firmware to patch vulnerabilities.

2. Infotainment System Exploits

The infotainment system, which provides entertainment and navigation services, often connects to the internet or other devices via Bluetooth. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in these systems to gain access to the car’s network.

Attack Vectors:

• Infected USB drives plugged into infotainment ports
• Compromised Bluetooth connections
• Installation of malicious apps via third-party sources

Potential Consequences:

• Theft of personal data (e.g., contacts, GPS history)
• Manipulation of navigation routes
• Loss of driver privacy

Prevention Measures:

• Install updates provided by the manufacturer.
• Avoid pairing with unknown Bluetooth devices.
• Use only approved apps and trusted USB devices.

3. CAN Bus Attacks (Controller Area Network)

The CAN bus is the primary communication network used in vehicles to connect different components, such as brakes, airbags, and engine controls. Once a hacker gains access to this network, they can send malicious commands to manipulate essential functions.

Examples of CAN Bus Attacks:

• Disabling the brakes or engine remotely
• Triggering false alerts on the dashboard
• Activating or disabling airbags during a crash

How Hackers Gain Access:

• Through a compromised diagnostic port (OBD-II)
• Exploiting vulnerabilities in aftermarket devices
• Via compromised Wi-Fi connections

Countermeasures:

• Use intrusion detection systems designed for vehicles.
• Secure physical access to the OBD-II port.
• Avoid using unauthorized third-party diagnostic devices.

4. GPS Spoofing Attacks

In a GPS spoofing attack, the vehicle receives fake GPS signals, making it believe it is in a different location. This can have serious implications for vehicles relying heavily on location-based services, such as autonomous cars or fleet vehicles.

Effects of GPS Spoofing:

• Misdirection or rerouting of the car
• Disruptions in autonomous vehicle operations
• Targeting delivery vehicles to hijack valuable goods

Defense Strategies:

• Use multi-band GPS receivers to detect anomalies.
• Cross-reference GPS data with other sensors for validation.
• Apply encryption and authentication methods for GPS signals.

5. Over-the-Air (OTA) Update Tampering

Many car manufacturers provide OTA updates to upgrade software and fix vulnerabilities. However, attackers can intercept or tamper with these updates, injecting malware into the vehicle's systems.

Risks of Compromised OTA Updates:

• Installation of backdoors or ransomware
• Disabling critical vehicle functions remotely
• Surveillance of driver behavior and activities

How to Safeguard OTA Updates:

• Ensure updates are only from trusted sources.
• Monitor update logs for suspicious activities.
• Use secure communication protocols (e.g., TLS encryption).

6. Wireless Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks

Vehicles connected to the internet or cellular networks can be targeted by DoS attacks, which overwhelm a car’s communication channels. This may temporarily disable infotainment systems, mobile apps, or even essential communication with the manufacturer’s cloud services.

Examples of DoS Attacks on Cars:

• Jamming of GPS signals or vehicle-to-vehicle communication
• Overloading onboard internet services
• Blocking remote diagnostics or safety alerts

Prevention Tactics:

• Employ robust firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
• Regularly update wireless communication software.
• Use network segmentation to isolate critical functions from external networks.

7. Vulnerabilities in Autonomous Vehicles

Self-driving cars rely heavily on sensors, cameras, LiDAR, and software algorithms to navigate. Hackers can manipulate these systems to disrupt the car’s behavior, causing accidents or steering it off-course.

Known Vulnerabilities:

• Blinding sensors with laser or physical interference
• Altering traffic sign recognition systems
• Hacking into vehicle communication networks

Mitigation Strategies:

• Develop redundant systems for sensors and software.
• Use blockchain-based communication for data integrity.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity experts to regularly test defenses.

The Future of Car Cybersecurity

With the rise of connected and autonomous vehicles, cybersecurity will remain a growing concern. As cars become more integrated into smart cities and the Internet of Things (IoT), manufacturers, governments, and drivers must adopt proactive strategies to address these risks.

Regulations such as the UN WP.29 Cybersecurity Regulation and standards like ISO/SAE 21434 are emerging to guide automotive cybersecurity practices. However, it is crucial for vehicle owners to stay informed and practice good cybersecurity hygiene, such as updating software and being cautious with third-party devices.