Car Hacking Danger: 6 Expert Tips To Protect Your Data

We usually protect our computers with the latest antivirus software and top of the range technology to prevent hacking. Also, we keep our antivirus software updated to cope with the latest “bugs” circulating the internet, so why not take the same precautions with our vehicles?

With constant technological advancements over the years, drivers don’t understand the complexity of their car’s software and are blind to the possibility that it could be targeted by hackers.

To add even more complexity, there are different ways that hackers can access our cars, such as remote keyless entry, brake interference and forcing acceleration – all of which can put drivers at serious risk.

 Luckily, Alex Kindred, car insurance expert at Confused.com, explains how you can protect your car and your information:

1. Regularly Update Your Car’s Software –

With hackers getting more and more intelligent, car manufacturers regularly send out important updates to fix gaps in their security systems and sort any vulnerabilities. Most cars will allow automatic updates, which is a good idea to ensure all the software and internal systems update automatically.

2. Clear Your Data Regularly

Most car manuals will have clear instructions on how to wipe your data, or you can also take your car to the dealership, where they can ensure that all the information about driver habits, location, paired devices is removed from the vehicle. Taking precautionary measures to regularly clear your data means that there is less data for hackers to obtain and breach.

3. Take Care When Connecting External Devices

External devices can easily pick up viruses, which can then be transferred to your car when connected. That’s why it’s good practice to always run checks on all external devices and never plug them into your car before you know they are clear of any bugs.

4. Be Aware of Third-Party Apps and Software

Some connected cars now allow drivers to download apps on their infotainment systems. However, installing untrustworthy apps that are not approved by your car’s manufacturer may put your car at risk. Therefore, you should always read reviews of apps before downloading, especially those that require payment details and only download apps that have been approved and reliable.

Related Topics

• Experts Reveal The Most Complicated Car Data Privacy Policies To Understand

• Where’ve You Wheely Been? Research Reveals All Major Car Brands Track Drivers Location History

• Security Experts Reveal Why Test-Driving Cars Could Expose Your Data

Nowadays, most modern cars will come with connected features. But, if you’re a fan of standard features and are unlikely to use Bluetooth audio or hands-free phone calls, don’t connect your smartphone in order to avoid any unnecessary data storage. As well, don’t share your password or allow people to have access to your car information that they don’t need to. Again, treat your car like you would your computer.

6. Value Cybersecurity as a Feature for Your Next Vehicle

New car purchases don’t tend to be about how much horsepower, mileage count, and the vehicle handles anymore. It’s more about the features the car brings, such as lane detection, safety, security, and smartphone compatibility. But with automotive hacking becoming more present than ever, how cyber-secure a vehicle is should be taken into account, too, when buying a car.