Car Networks

Today, I had the intention of writing about how I think that increasingly computerized and automatized functions in cars is a bad thing, for reliability and longevity reasons. That post will have to wait, however, as I just read an article about how researchers were able to wirelessly hack into the computerized systems in at least one late-model vehicle. Once they did so, they had more or less full control over the vehicle, from relatively mundane functions such as radio and A/C, to much more life-threatening equipment such as engine and brakes.

Now they didn't specify the particular make or model, but I have a feeling it may have been either Ford or GM, as both use very integrated software. Ford seems the most likely target, as its Sync "Powered by Microsoft" system allows the driver (and thus a hacker) to have voice command control of much of the vehicle. GM's OnStar network also seems like a good candidate, though a hacker might not be able to exert as much control with that system, as it's designed more to observe than to manipulate.

I believe that most other car manufacturers have done the right thing, namely to isolate essential vehicle functions on a separate network that is only accessible by a hard line. So, while this layout doesn't let you start the engine by saying "start engine" or pushing a button on your navigation computer, it does prevent a hacker from taking complete control of your vehicle... seems like a decent trade off to me.


I'm reminded of a lesson learned the hard way in the recent TV series, Battlestar Galactica. An old, soon-to-be-retired battleship manages to survive an attack by cyborgs because, unlike all of the newer ships, it doesn't have a wireless network and isn't susceptible to a computer virus which paralyzes the rest of the fleet. Not that Ford or GM are going to be sending their cars into battle anytime soon, but I think you get the point.