Cybersecurity in Cars: Protecting Against Hacks & Data Theft

Summary

• Modern connected cars are essentially rolling computer networks, making them targets for cyberattacks.
• Hacks pose significant risks, including remote control of vehicle functions, theft of personal data, and vehicle theft itself.
• Owners can drastically improve security by keeping software updated, using strong passwords, securing key fobs, and being mindful of connections.

Cybersecurity in Modern Cars: Protecting Against Hacks & Data Theft

Let's be honest. When you think about your car, you probably think about its MPG, the colour, or that annoying rattle you’ve been meaning to get checked. But have you ever thought about its IP address? Or its vulnerability to a ransomware attack?

Probably not. And why would you? A car is supposed to be about freedom, not firewalls.

But here’s the thing: your car isn't just a car anymore. It’s a sophisticated, rolling computer network. It’s connected to the internet, to your phone, to satellites, and sometimes, to other cars. And like any computer, it can be hacked.

This isn’t sci-fi fear-mongering. The world of car cybersecurity is a very real, and very important, part of modern vehicle ownership. It's about protecting more than just your data; it's about protecting your safety.

Why This Matters More Than Your Stolen Spotify Playlist

A hacker getting into your laptop is a nightmare. They might steal your identity or empty your bank account. But a hacker getting into your car? That’s a different level of terrifying.

Modern vehicles have dozens of computer systems called Electronic Control Units (ECUs). These control everything from your radio to your airbags, your engine timing, and, crucially, your brakes and steering. These ECUs all talk to each other over an internal network, most commonly a Controller Area Network (CAN bus).

Think of the CAN bus as your car's central nervous system. If a hacker finds a way in—through the infotainment system, a connected app, or even the diagnostic port—they could potentially send malicious commands to this nervous system. The risk isn't just about someone stealing your list of contacts; it's about the potential for someone to remotely interfere with the physical operation of your vehicle.

How Do They Even Get In? The Hacker's Toolkit

So, how does a car, a seemingly sealed metal box, get exposed to the digital world? The same way we do: through its connections. Every point of connection is a potential doorway for an attacker.

The Obvious Doors:

• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth: Your car’s infotainment system connecting to your phone or a public Wi-Fi network is a prime target.
• Cellular Connection (4G/5G): Many cars have their own SIM cards for built-in sat-nav, live traffic updates, and concierge services. This is a direct line to the internet.
• Connected Apps: The app on your phone that lets you remotely unlock or pre-heat your car is another entry point. If the app or your account is compromised, so is your car.

The Sneakier Windows:

• The Key Fob: This is one of the most common vulnerabilities. Thieves use "relay attacks" where one device captures the signal from your key fob (even from inside your house) and relays it to a second device next to your car, tricking the car into thinking the key is present. It’s a huge factor in the rise of modern vehicle theft. If you're worried about this, our car theft prevention guide has some practical tips.
• The On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Port: This is the port mechanics use to diagnose engine problems. It provides deep access to the car’s internal network. Hackers can plug in their own devices to reprogram systems or even create a new key. For more on vehicle diagnostics, see our guide on what a car's VIN is and how to find it.
• USB Ports: A malicious file on a USB stick could potentially introduce malware, especially to the infotainment system.

Not-So-Hypothetical Nightmares: Real Car Hacks

This isn't just theoretical. The automotive industry had its big wake-up call in 2015.

Imagine driving down the motorway when your radio suddenly starts blasting music at full volume, the wipers turn on, and then, terrifyingly, the engine cuts out. That’s exactly what cybersecurity researchers did to a Jeep Cherokee from a laptop miles away. They exploited a vulnerability in the car's internet-connected entertainment system, which ultimately led to Fiat Chrysler recalling 1.4 million vehicles.

More recently, in September 2025, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) was hit by a major cyberattack that severely disrupted production lines and retail operations. While this was a corporate attack, it highlights how vulnerable the entire automotive ecosystem is.

These incidents prove that the risks are real and have serious consequences, affecting everything from personal safety to global supply chains.

What’s at Stake? A Quick Rundown

So, What Can You Do About It? (Spoiler: More Than You Think)

While manufacturers bear the primary responsibility for securing their vehicles, you are not powerless. Think of it like home security: the builder installs strong doors and windows, but you’re the one who locks them at night.

Here are some simple, practical steps every driver of a connected car should take:

1. Treat Your Car Like Your Phone: Update It!
   Manufacturers release software updates (often "over-the-air") to patch security holes. Don’t ignore these notifications. Applying updates is one of the single most effective things you can do.
2. Practice Good Password Hygiene.
   Your connected car app should have a strong, unique password. Don't reuse the same password you use for your social media. If multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an option, enable it immediately.
3. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi.
   Connecting your car to that free coffee shop Wi-Fi might seem harmless, but public networks are notoriously insecure. Avoid using them for your car's systems if you can.
4. Think Before You Plug In or Install.
   Be cautious about what you plug into your car’s USB ports. Also, vet any third-party apps you connect to your vehicle. Do they really need all those permissions?
5. Turn Off What You Don't Need.
   If you never use your car's Wi-Fi hotspot or certain Bluetooth features, turn them off. Reducing the number of active connections reduces your car's "attack surface."
6. Secure Your Key Fob.
   To protect against relay attacks, store your key fob in a Faraday pouch (a signal-blocking bag) at home. It’s a cheap and incredibly effective solution. And if you ever lose your keys, getting them replaced is a priority. Here’s a guide on how to handle lost or broken car keys.
7. Be Smart When Selling.
   Before you sell your car, perform a factory reset of the infotainment system to wipe all your personal data. This includes unpairing all Bluetooth devices and logging out of any connected accounts. It’s a crucial step when you decide to sell your car safely online.

The Road Ahead

The car cybersecurity landscape is a constant cat-and-mouse game. As vehicle technology becomes more advanced, hackers will find new and more creative ways to exploit it. Automakers are now investing heavily in "security by design," building cybersecurity into the car from the ground up, and are increasingly subject to regulations that mandate certain security standards.

For us, the drivers, the key is awareness, not anxiety. Your car is still one of the safest places to be, but it's no longer a simple mechanical machine. It’s a part of your digital life.

It's not about being paranoid; it's about being prepared. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy all the benefits of modern automotive technology while keeping yourself, your data, and your vehicle safe on the road.

Read our other articles: