At the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show, technology firm Harman warned that modern cars may be at risk of having their security compromised by computer hackers. The consequences, Harman warns, could be fatal.
The Electronic Control Units (ECUs) in cars control everything from infotainment features to safety applications such as anti-lock brakes. Modern cars have a great deal of connectivity to the internet, and computer hackers can gain access to the car’s systems through this. Unfortunately, access is not limited to things like entertainment and comfort apps. Skilled hackers may be able to gain access of the ECUs which control operations of the engine, transmission, and other vital automobile functions.
This is not something that will become a problem in the future, but it is a problem now. Most modern cars are at risk.
According to a report in Auto Express, Harman is working on software that will block vital functions from being accessible to hackers. It will likely take another two to three years for this to become available to the public.
Harman aims to ensure that this new software does not result in an increase in car prices.
(*Car photo via Shutterstock)
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