Intel moves to improve cyber security in cars

Motorists’ safety at risk as increasingly computerised cars may be hacked

Computerised cars: “When cyber attacks cross from stolen credit card details to car accidents, there is a physical threat which is a concern for people and governments,” says Intel Security general manager Chris Young. Photograph: Ingo Wagner/AFP/Getty

Forgetting to lock your car or the theft of the radio used to be the biggest security concerns for drivers. Now, as more cars connect to the internet, motorists' physical safety could be at risk too, according to Intel Security general manager Chris Young.

Mr Young said security experts have now proven they can hack into a vehicle and disable it remotely.

“Two years ago, we talked about hacking cars theoretically. Now we know it can actually happen,” he said.

“Cyber security used to be about fraud and identity theft. Now there are physical safety issues with connected cars.

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“There are hundreds of computer components in a car. We’ve now connected that car to the internet. We’ve seen high-profile examples of what can happen.

“When cyber attacks cross from stolen credit card details to car accidents, there is a physical threat which is a concern for people and governments.”

Research

Intel recently announced the formation of the Automotive Security Review Board (ASRB) to bring together top security industry researchers from around the world whose focus is on securing cyber-physical systems.

“We can raise the bar against cyber attacks in automobiles. With the help of the ASRB, Intel can ensure cybersecurity is an essential ingredient in the design of every connected car,” Mr Young said.