The automotive industry is booming, but rising cybersecurity threats are a huge concern as both remote and physical attacks in the digital landscape. Systems are becoming technologically smarter, however, this makes them more susceptible for cyber attacks. So how can increased cybersecurity help the end-user, manufacturer, and dealership?
Manufacturers
As the manufacturing industry becomes smarter, the cybersecurity protocols used to protect connected IoT (Internet of Things) devices and components also need to adapt and be built in at the manufacturing level.
The advancement of digital technologies has increased the cyber complexity requirements in all areas of automotive manufacturing. Smart factories are interconnected, and cyber threats expose people, technology, processes, and intellectual property to these risks.
Encryption and digital tokenization are two distinct cryptographic methods used for IoT data security. The latter uses undecryptable information to represent secret data, while encryption necessitates the use of a cryptographic key. Another way to protect smart components is by assigning each of them with a tamper-proof cryptographic key via key injection is a well-known method for securing components. This process injects a cryptographic key into the components, giving them a unique electronic identity, and increasing the authenticity of the device. This unique identity enables manufacturers to provide reliable device attestation.
But automotive cybersecurity isn’t just restricted to data encryption and tokenization, or key generation. It also involves identity management via a public key infrastructure, which is essential as a foundation for data and device security as well as the authenticity and integrity of parts.
The Impact of Automotive Cybersecurity on the End-User
The number of electronic components in vehicles is increasing, and there are more functions supported by electronic control units (ECUs). In some cases, whole functions are entirely taken over by electronic systems, such as the Connected Cars that rely on IoT.
Vehicles could face remote cyber attacks via network connections like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks (3G, 4G, and 5G). Long-range attacks involving targeting the vehicle’s API to get access to its software and functions, intercepting and messing with data flow in the car’s communication systems, and harassment using ransomware, have become extremely common. Cyber attacks don’t just steal sensitive data, but also mess up business operations, lead to vehicle theft, system manipulation, and fraud.
A multi-faceted approach is required such as regular software updates, setting up a strong authentication system, implementing comprehensive security testing and risk assessment programs, and enhancing user awareness by educating vehicle owners on the usage of strong passwords and the importance of personalizing them. Stronger firewalls have to be installed as well, along with data backup systems.
Dealerships and automotive cybersecurity
Even car dealerships are facing threats in the digital realm, as hackers are increasingly targeting auto dealers, exploiting vulnerabilities in their IT systems and customer databases. Dealers need to ensure all computer systems require password protection, and that employees know how to create and protect effective passwords. Consider multi-factor authentication when accessing key systems and sensitive data – user verification is crucial.
Educate your team on automotive cybersecurity and ensure they are professionally trained in how to identify security threats, such as avoiding phishing scams. Implement a data backup system as ransomware attacks hold information hostage (as mentioned above), and a malicious actor may try and destroy the stored information. Always back-up vital data in case it is lost to minimize informational and financial losses.
As dealerships become more dependent on advanced technology, it is a must to ensure their training modules and processes are up to date. Investing in automotive cybersecurity and education empowers teams to provide exceptional customer service and the assurance that all data is well-protected.
Cybersecurity isn’t to be taken lightly anymore, as cyber attacks become more frequent and malicious in nature. It is imperative to implement proper measures so crucial data and information remains secure and protected at all times.
