The world has become smarter with more connected technologies. New technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT), smart robotics, and cloud systems have connected more systems than ever before. In this world of smart mobility solutions and AI, it is no surprise how vehicle cybersecurity has come into play.
Today, a vehicle depends on multiple sensors, technology, and connectivity becoming a subject to a potential threat and attacks to the systems and human lives. That is why it has become important to understand how vehicle cybersecurity has an important role in safety.
HOW AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRIES ARE ENSURING CYBERSECURITY?
Our dependency on information systems and new technologies has increased. The latest vehicle models come with the modern safety and infotainment features. That said, infotainment systems and advanced driver assistance systems require internet and connectivity to function properly.
Furthermore, these features have enhanced vehicle safety and health through onboard diagnostic (OBD) scanners and systems. With cars relying on complex software, they are at a higher risk of potential hacking, insurance fraud, and theft.
Before we understand the steps taken by auto manufacturers for vehicle cybersecurity, let’s go through the potential risks associated with modern technology such as automotive IoT and AI.
POTENTIAL RISKS
With more software and systems integrated into cars, the following systems can be affected by a cyberattack:
- Larger networks were created via automotive telematics.
- Since modern cars receive over-the-air (OTA) updates, the systems can get hacked when connected to the internet.
- Roadside networks, traffic control systems, and smart mobility management systems.
- Advanced driver assistance systems, safety, and autonomous vehicle systems.
SOLUTIONS ADAPTED BY AUTO MANUFACTURERS
With more software and systems, cybersecurity in autonomous vehicles is becoming more and more important. Automotive industries have put a fair effort into developing systematic and comprehensive approaches to mitigate cybersecurity risks. Let’s go through the following methods used by automotive industries to ensure vehicle cybersecurity:
- A multi-layered approach focusing on vehicle’s safety systems
- Identification and protection process for critical systems in cars
- Effective strategies for information sharing and receiving new updates
- Introducing new standards to improve cybersecurity in connected and autonomous vehicles
IMPORTANT CHALLENGES
Since these systems and sensors are an integral part of car occupants’ safety, it is important to address the challenges that come with these systems. Although auto brands have certainly up the ante regarding vehicle cybersecurity, specific challenges exist.
Here are the challenges that automotive industries may face when ensuring secured and safe vehicle connectivity and communication systems.
- Developing robust, fool-proof, and cost-effective cybersecurity systems.
- Standardisation is the most difficult challenge as countries across the globe have different traffic systems. Different automotive cybersecurity standards for various regions will increase cost and complexity.
- Embedded connectivity systems come at high costs. Consumers may be reluctant to bear the high cost of embedded systems.
APPLICATION OF CYBERSECURITY IN AUTONOMOUS AND CONNECTED VEHICLES
Systems and software have raised the demand for data security more than ever. Here are the use cases of cybersecurity to protect communications within and outside the vehicle.
INTERNAL VEHICLE COMMUNICATIONS
A car consists of several software components that have memory and store a certain amount of data. Therefore, the protection of this data is necessary for human and vehicle security. Besides, automotive manufacturers send over-the-air updates that are required to be installed by users.
These updates should have authentic frame transmission to prevent any manipulation of signals. Some software and systems use Bluetooth such as Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) making vehicle cybersecurity important to protect that internal vehicle communication. Besides, infotainment systems and OBD also require a safe WiFi or hotspot connection.
VEHICLE TO EVERYTHING CONNECTIVITY AND COMMUNICATION
Networks and systems such as Dubai taxi or bus networks operating in the smarter cities require authentic data transmission and infrastructure to prevent any cyberattack. Since electric cars are a new norm, there is a widespread charging station network increasing the usage of cards to pay for EV charging.
For instance, DEWA EV green chargers require consumers to pay via card or mobile app. This requires a safe and embedded system for secure communication.
As we are seeing more growth in the production of autonomous and self-driving vehicles, how the auto industry addresses this vehicle cybersecurity challenge will define the future. The role of regulatory authorities will also play an essential part in cybersecurity development.
Besides, users owning a modern and technically sound new or used car in the UAE should address the cybersecurity threat to avoid harm.
Keep reading UAE’s leading cars blog to find more information on the latest technologies and trends in the automotive industry.
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