The influx of digital innovations that make cars smarter exposes them to new cybersecurity threats. Ever since Wired ran a 2015 story detailing how two legal hackers remotely hacked into a Jeep, automakers have taken this issue seriously. But protecting against cyberattacks requires a holistic approach that spans the entire value chain.
Security
Having a solid security protocol in place is a must for any automotive company. With modern-day cars becoming self-reliant and automated, cybersecurity protocols are becoming crucial to keep hackers at bay.
The probability of security encroachment rises with the degree of networking and the number of in-vehicle interfaces. Automakers and suppliers must set clear guidelines for their respective teams, ensuring they are always followed. The implementation of a management system for cybersecurity can help ensure this. Additionally, Shohreh Abedi of Auto Club Group emphasized that setting up a network of security researchers and experts in the supply chain is vital to identify potential vulnerabilities in real-time. This could help prevent cyberattacks, such as ransomware, when a threat actor encrypts data and demands payment for its return. This can cost businesses millions and even put them out of business if it halts IT systems or operations.
Compliance
Despite the rapid pace of technological car advancements, security threats continue to mount. As more software components enter the vehicle, hackers can exploit them to steal data and take control of vehicles remotely.
As cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated, automotive manufacturers must upskill their employees to address them. They must also establish stricter cybersecurity risk-management processes and compliance documentation. Furthermore, they must be ready to respond to CCPA regulations, which require them to provide drivers with clear notice of how their data will be collected and shared with third parties.
In addition, auto manufacturers should consider the serviceability of vehicle components and systems. Since they can remain in use for over a decade, they must work towards protecting electronic systems, communication networks, control algorithms, software, users, and underlying data from attacks, damage, or unauthorized access. They should also be able to recover from such incidents quickly. This will help them build reputations as safe, secure brands.
Reputation
Auto businesses must focus on creating a good reputation online. It helps build trust with potential customers, stands them out from the competition, improves SEO efforts, boosts sales and customer loyalty, and builds a consistent brand image. However, the automotive industry is prone to cyber attacks from hackers who want to steal valuable tech secrets or damage digital infrastructure. One of the most common attack methods is phishing, where hackers trick employees into clicking on emails that contain malware. This allows hackers to enter the system and access sensitive data. Another dangerous attack method is ransomware, which involves hackers taking over a system until they get a payout. These attacks have impacted some of the world’s largest car manufacturers and can lead to huge losses.
Data Privacy
As vehicles become more connected, cyberattacks pose a growing threat. Hackers may gain access to a vehicle’s internal communication system, enabling them to manipulate the car’s functionality and potentially cause a crash. Carmakers must also be mindful of the personal information they share. The technologies in modern vehicles collect and exchange a large amount of data that some consumers might view as private, such as the routes they travel and the precise addresses they visit. To protect against these threats, OEMs must integrate cybersecurity into their development and production processes. This requires a change in mindset from viewing it as an IT issue to considering it a core business concern. In addition, suppliers must develop capabilities to embed security best practices in their components and work closely with OEMs to ensure they deliver end-to-end secure solutions. This requires creating a common cybersecurity language that all parties can understand.
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