Experts Reveal How Electric Vehicles Are Vulnerable to Hacking, Identify the Methods

Cyber attacks can target many electric vehicles (EVs). This is because EVs often use over-the-air (OTA) technology for software updates, making them easier to hack. This also poses a risk to national security. “Its use raises unique national security concerns,” said Gabriel Lim, a senior analyst at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. Lim cited data privacy as a security issue stemming from this vulnerability, alongside the potential for actors, described as foreign entities, to take over control of a moving EV. The American Enterprise Institute also warned in May about the importance of enhancing protection in the automotive sector. The warning was issued to limit the espionage capabilities of foreign governments. According to the report, the US government is urged to take several preventative measures, including restricting hardware and software made in certain countries. “To protect against foreign espionage threats, the US should consider additional security reviews, implement restrictions on certain foreign-made hardware and software in vehicles, and mandate enhanced disclosure of data collection,” the report stated. A trial in Norway uncovered this vulnerability last year. Norwegian bus company Ruter conducted tests on two buses and found that one had a cybersecurity risk originating from OTA technology. Ruter’s findings prompted the UK and Denmark to launch their own investigations. The Department for Transport stated it is investigating the matter and working closely with the National Cyber Security Centre. OTA is a wireless technology used to send new software, firmware, fixes, and data to internet-connected devices.