Is Cybersecurity The Next Big Challenge For The Auto Industry?

Cybersecurity should be an area of prime concern for all businesses as the world becomes increasingly interconnected, and the automotive industry is no exception.

Cars are adopting more complex technology all the time, much of which is connected to other systems via the internet, making cybersecurity breaches all the more likely. The increasing reliance on technology and interconnected systems may offer exceptional convenience and efficiency, but it also exposes vehicles to potential cyberattacks. Consequently, all businesses involved in the industry should undertake a detailed threat analysis and risk assessment in automotive cybersecurity.

In this article, we’ll explore the key cybersecurity challenges that the automotive industry faces.

Connected Vehicle Vulnerabilities

The world is becoming gradually more interconnected and modern vehicles are not immune from this technological advance. Modern cars are often equipped with many connected features, from infotainment systems to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). While these technologies are designed to enhance the driving experience, they also open windows which cybercriminals can use to exploit software vulnerabilities. The infamous Jeep hack of 2015 exposed the risks involved if vehicles are not fully protected against infiltration by cyber criminals, which could lead to malicious control over critical functions, thereby jeopardising the safety of vehicle occupants.

Data Privacy And Theft

When people think of data theft, they often imagine hackers deliberately targeting major corporations to siphon customer information from their servers and computer systems. But with the growing volume of data that is generated by connected vehicles, data privacy is also a serious concern within the automotive industry. Cybercriminals may attempt to breach a vehicle’s internal computer to steal sensitive data, such as personal information, driving patterns, or location data which not only compromises the privacy of individuals but could also lead to identity theft and other fraudulent activities.

Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

The automotive industry relies on a highly complex global supply chain which involves many manufacturers and software developers. Weaknesses in any component or software used in a vehicle’s production may introduce vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. To ensure the security of every partner in the supply chain, it’s crucial to take robust action to prevent cyberattacks on vehicles.

Risks To Public Infrastructure

As towns and cities become more connected, public infrastructure, such as traffic management systems and electric vehicle charging stations, are becoming seamlessly integrated into the Internet of Things (IoT). While this brings numerous benefits, it also exposes infrastructure to cybersecurity threats that could prove to be highly disruptive and damaging. For example, a successful cyberattack on traffic management systems could disrupt traffic flow and pose significant safety risks to members of the public, so proactive steps must be taken to protect infrastructure and ensure it continues to function in an orderly and safe manner.

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