Protect yourself from hackers taking control of your car

The right software can turn your smartphone into a spy device that watches everything you do. Scary, I know.

Here’s how to check if your phone is infected.

While you’re at it, check your computer. These are the signs that stalkerware is hard at work tracking your web activity, searches, and even the passwords you type in.

Shockingly, your car isn’t immune. With the proper electronics and software techniques, a determined hacker can intercept or block your key fob signal, infiltrate your car’s software, and even remotely control your vehicle.

So, is your connected car hackable? Most likely, yes. Here’s how.

Software hacks

Compromised car apps: Does your car have a smartphone app that allows you to unlock and start it remotely? Almost every car manufacturer offers this convenience in some makes and models.

Account usernames and passwords protect these apps. If hackers can break into your account or exploit a bug in the car’s software, they can compromise your entire vehicle.

My advice: To protect your remote start app, change the default password, use strong and unique credentials and never reuse your passwords from other services. Enable two-factor authentication if you can, and keep that software current.

Telematics exploits: Telematics is the broad term describing a connected system that remotely monitors your vehicle’s behavior. This data may include your car’s location, speed, mileage, tire pressure, fuel use, braking, engine/battery status, and driver behavior.

By now, you know anything connected to the internet is vulnerable to exploitation. Hackers that intercept your connection can track and even control your vehicle remotely. Now that’s scary.

My advice: Before you get a car with built-in telematics, consult with your car dealer about the cybersecurity measures they’re employing on connected vehicles. If you have a connected car, ensure its onboard software is always up to date.

Networking attacks: Here’s a throwback. Cybercriminals can also employ old-school denial-of-service attacks to overwhelm your vehicle and potentially shut down critical functions like airbags, antilock brakes, and door locks.

This attack is…