McAfee, the American digital security software company owned by Intel, has published a summary of their concerns that vehicle electronics development could be progressing without adequate consideration of potential security concerns. Exploiting weaknesses in computerised communication protocols is a well established method for hackers to gain access to systems they may want to manipulate, especially those online. As the potential for vehicle communication and telematics technologies increases, then so do the methods that could be used to interfere with vehicle electronic systems, including those used to protect against theft.
The points raised in the McAfee study entitled “Caution: Malware Ahead” agree with the analysis in SBD’s detailed report SBD/SEC2312 “Can Thieves Control my Car?” that the emphasis on vehicle development is in offering new connected features and services, and not necessarily in confirming that these connections are secure from malicious tampering.
Research teams across the world have already proved that they can start vehicle engines using mobile phone technology if they have an SMS enabled remote start system, interfere with wireless tyre pressure monitor system signals, and hijack bluetooth connectivity to access vehicle communication circuits.
“Making automotive services more secure than comparable Internet services is really a challenge but is necessary. The automotive world will also have to harmonize the lifecycles of IT-security and automotive security components in the car.”
Winfried Stephan, Senior Consultant T-Systems ICT Security Consulting and Engineering as quoted in “Caution: Malware Ahead”
To read the McAfee report click here.
To find out more about SBD’s analysis of the potential threats, an explanation of what the research teams have been able to achieve, and what level of attack could be feasible in the future, click here for the product brochure on SBD/SEC2312 “Can Thieves Control my Car?” and here for our Theft threats package of reports which describe the latest methods in use by thieves across the world to attack the security systems fitted to modern vehicles.
SBD’s electronic security experts can advise you on specific designs, system concepts, and existing theft methods and high tech threats. Find out more about our preventative services by calling our Secure Car Team on +44 1908 305 105 or emailing security@sbd.co.uk