Gothenburg, Sweden – A recent scientific study has warned of increasing security risks facing modern cars.
This comes after the discovery of hundreds of software vulnerabilities in the electronic systems used in internet-connected vehicles.
There are concerns that some of these vulnerabilities could be exploited to access vital functions, including brakes, steering, and driver control systems.Risks of using digital technology inside vehiclesResearchers from the University of Gothenburg and Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden examined 413 security vulnerabilities related to automotive software,
aiming to identify weaknesses that hackers could exploit as digital technology expands.
The study revealed that third-party applications and services connected to cars accounted for the largest share of discovered vulnerabilities, at approximately 36.2%.
This applies, for example, to mobile applications and cloud platforms. This highlights the growing risks associated with the constant connectivity between cars, devices, and external networks.
This problem is exacerbated as modern cars become integrated electronic systems.
They rely on dozens of control units and software to manage various functions, ranging from infotainment and communication systems to braking, steering, and driver assistance systems.827 software libraries containing security vulnerabilitiesResearchers pointed out that compromising one of the less sensitive systems could provide access to more critical functions if adequate protection isn’t in place to separate the various electronic systems within the vehicle.
The study also revealed 827 software libraries containing security vulnerabilities.
This came after analyzing 20 open-source projects related to automotive software development.
This highlights the challenges that external software components pose to vehicle security.
These warnings are reminiscent of the 2015 Jeep Cherokee hack. At that time, specialized researchers were able to remotely access some of the vehicle’s functions, including the braking and steering systems.
This prompted the manufacturer to recall approximately 1.4 million vehicles in the United States to address the flaw.Strengthening cybersecurity measuresDespite the seriousness of the results, the researchers explained that discovering vulnerabilities does not necessarily mean that all cars can be remotely controlled.
It also does not mean that the braking and steering systems are directly vulnerable. But it emphasizes the need to deal seriously with advanced electronic threats.
The study called on automobile companies to strengthen cybersecurity measures during software design. It also called for conducting periodic tests and filling the discovered gaps.
It recommended ensuring the presence of strong security barriers to prevent intrusions from moving from entertainment and communication systems to basic driving functions.
These results reflect an important shift in the nature of the risks facing the automotive industry.
Vehicle safety is no longer solely linked to the efficiency of engines and mechanical systems.
Rather, digital protection has become an essential element to preserve the lives of drivers and passengers.
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