How Hackers Can Steal Your Car: The Cybersecurity Threats You Need to Know

How Hackers Can Steal Your Car: The Cybersecurity Threats You Need to Know

In an increasingly connected world, vehicles have evolved from purely mechanical machines to advanced computers on wheels. While this transformation offers unmatched convenience and smart functionality, it also introduces a new dimension of vulnerability: cybersecurity threats. Modern cars are loaded with connectivity features like keyless entry, remote start, infotainment systems, telematics, and even smartphone app integrations. These systems, though designed to enhance user experience, present significant attack surfaces for cybercriminals.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the methods hackers use to steal modern vehicles, the key vulnerabilities they exploit, real-world case studies, and—most importantly—how you can defend your car against cyber theft.

The Rise of Connected Vehicles: A Double-Edged Sword

Over the last decade, the automotive industry has embraced digital transformation. Most new cars today come equipped with a range of features that require connectivity:

• Controller Area Network (CAN Bus)

• Telematics control units (TCUs) like OnStar or Uconnect

• Wireless communication via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and LTE

• GPS tracking and geofencing capabilities

• Over-the-air (OTA) software updates

• Keyless entry/start systems

• Mobile apps for remote car management

These technologies make vehicles smarter and more convenient—but also more vulnerable. Each connected component becomes a potential entry point for hackers. A single exploit can grant access to critical systems like brakes, steering, or engine control modules.

How Hackers Steal Cars in the Digital Age

1. Relay Attacks: Exploiting Keyless Entry

Relay attacks are one of the most common and effective techniques for stealing cars equipped with keyless entry systems.

How it works: Two criminals operate in tandem. One stands near your home or office with a device that captures the signal from your key fob. The other stands near your vehicle with a receiver that relays the signal. The car is tricked into thinking the key is nearby, allowing it to unlock and start.

Impact:

• The car can be stolen in seconds without damaging it.

• Often leaves no physical evidence, making insurance claims difficult.

Protection Tips:

• Store your keys in a Faraday cage or signal-blocking pouch.

• Turn off keyless entry (if possible) when not needed.

• Use physical deterrents like steering wheel locks.

2. CAN Injection Attacks: Bypassing Physical Security

This method targets the vehicle's internal Controller Area Network (CAN Bus), the system that allows electronic control units (ECUs) to communicate.

How it works: Hackers access exposed wiring under the car's bodywork—often through the headlights or bumper—and use a specially designed device to send commands directly to the CAN Bus. These commands can unlock doors, disable alarms, and even start the engine.

Impact:

• Can be done in under 3 minutes.

• Circumvents both physical and digital security systems.

Protection Tips:

• Use tamper-proof screws and covers on ECU access points.

• Install aftermarket CAN Bus immobilizers.

• Avoid parking in isolated or poorly lit areas.

3. Hacking Mobile Apps and APIs

Vehicle manufacturers increasingly provide smartphone apps that allow users to lock/unlock, start, locate, and manage vehicle settings.

How it works: Hackers target vulnerabilities in the backend APIs or exploit weak authentication practices to take over user accounts. In some cases, all that’s needed is the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and reused passwords to gain access.

Impact:

• Remote control of vehicle features.

• GPS tracking and potential stalking.

• Data theft (contacts, driving habits, etc.).

Protection Tips:

• Use unique, strong passwords and avoid reusing them.

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

• Regularly update your mobile apps and vehicle firmware.

4. Telematics Unit Vulnerabilities

Telematics units (e.g., Uconnect, Blue Link, OnStar) offer remote services like diagnostics, vehicle tracking, and roadside assistance. However, they’re connected to the internet 24/7.

How it works: Hackers scan for vulnerable firmware versions, exploit outdated software, or intercept communications between the telematics system and the cloud.

Impact:

• Remote hijacking of vehicle systems.

• Disabling alarms and tracking systems.

• Unauthorized OTA firmware updates.

Protection Tips:

• Keep telematics software updated.

• Choose manufacturers with strong cybersecurity policies.

• Consider disabling remote features if not needed.

5. Infotainment System Exploits

Infotainment systems are often overlooked, but they are critical attack surfaces due to their connectivity with external devices and internal networks.

How it works: Hackers use malware-infected USB drives, Bluetooth connections, or third-party apps to infiltrate the infotainment system. From there, they pivot to more sensitive systems via the CAN Bus.

Impact:

• Access to private user data (contacts, messages, call logs).

• Potential control over vehicle functions.

• Disruption or manipulation of navigation and displays.

Protection Tips:

• Avoid connecting untrusted devices to USB or Bluetooth.

• Disable unused ports and wireless interfaces.

• Install system updates regularly.

Real-World Examples of Car Hacking

Jeep Cherokee (2015)

Security researchers Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek exploited vulnerabilities in the Uconnect system to gain full remote control over a Jeep Cherokee, including steering, braking, and acceleration. Chrysler issued a recall for 1.4 million vehicles.

Tesla Model S (2018)

Hackers cloned a Tesla key fob signal using cheap radio equipment and stole the vehicle in seconds. Tesla responded by enhancing key fob encryption and adding a PIN-to-drive feature.

Hyundai & BMW (2022)

Researchers discovered insecure APIs that allowed remote unlocking and GPS tracking using only the VIN number. These findings were disclosed, and patches were issued, but they exposed serious oversight in API security.

Cybersecurity Best Practices for Vehicle Owners

General Guidelines:

• Update everything regularly: Firmware, apps, and infotainment systems.

• Layered security: Use both physical and digital deterrents.

• Monitor for recalls: Stay informed about cybersecurity patches.

App and Device Security:

• Don’t store passwords or VINs in unsecured locations.

• Be cautious with aftermarket devices; avoid cheap, unvetted electronics.

• Use VPNs if accessing car apps from public Wi-Fi.

Professional Measures:

• Schedule periodic assessments from automotive cybersecurity professionals.

• Install aftermarket alarm and tracking systems with encrypted communication.

• Consider disabling unnecessary connected features.

The Future of Vehicle Cybersecurity

As the industry moves toward full autonomy and V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication, cybersecurity will be even more critical. AI-driven security solutions, blockchain vehicle identities, and real-time anomaly detection systems will become the norm.

However, no technology is foolproof. Car owners must remain vigilant and proactive.

Your Car Needs Cybersecurity Too

Gone are the days when a car could only be stolen with a crowbar and hot wires. In the digital age, theft can happen silently, invisibly, and remotely. Protecting your vehicle now requires a combination of cybersecurity awareness, physical safeguards, and responsible tech usage.

By understanding the methods hackers use and implementing the protective strategies outlined here, you can stay several steps ahead and ensure your vehicle’s security—both on the road and in cyberspace.

Need help securing your vehicle or fleet? Contact Cybrvault Today!

☎️ 305-988-9012 📧 info@cybrvault.com 🖥 www.cybrvault.com

Stay safe. Stay secure. Stay connected—on your terms.