Certified CenterA brand new cyber protection software could soon protect your electronics--including phones, routers, printers, and cars--from cyberattacks.
With the ways technology is changing and leading our world these days, it’s no surprise that thieves have found ways to hack a vehicle’s technology system to steal vehicles. Wasn’t it only a few years ago that a car would have to be hot-wired in order to be stolen?
Vehicles now come with GPS systems, cameras, automatic braking systems, and computers, making cyberthreats more of a reality for car owners with “smart cars.” In 2015, the Defcon security conference showcased how hackers breached the computer system of a Tesla Model S. They were able to unlock the doors, start the engine, and drive off without ever breaking a sweat. In 2016, thieves in Houston used a laptop to act as a key fob and were able to steal over 30 cars. With these scenarios proving to be a prevalent threat to owners to connected cars, the FBI and US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a warning that these vehicles are becoming “increasingly vulnerable” to cyberattacks.
This is where researchers from Red Balloon Security are stepping in. Their company recently announced a new system called the Symbiote for Automotive Defense. Symbiote already serves as a cybersecurity add-on for connected devices, whether it’s being utilized on a smart fridge or coffee maker. But unlike other security options, the Symbiote software defends against malware by being installed into a device’s hardware. Because Symbiote is compatible with all operating systems, it is able to protect all car brands. Their goal is make this software as easy to install and operate as it is to lock a steering wheel into place.
“As cars become more advanced in the years ahead, and this technology is more widely deployed across all vehicle models, drivers will face a growing set of risks from remote attacks,” said Ang Cui, CEO of Red Balloon Security.
Cui continued that the new cyber protection for vehicles will be able to protect them from ransomware, remote hijacking, and zero-day attacks. “We fully expect Symbiote for Automotive Defense to become ubiquitous in new automobiles.” Millions of connected devices around the world are already utilizing Symbiote for security and the company says they have not yet recorded a failure.
We’re excited to see how car owners respond to this software and its capability of protecting from cyberattacks! As always, BMW of San Antonio will keep you updated with the most updated information coming out of the automotive world.
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