According to statistics, 50 percent of cars manufactured are connected, and this number is expected to rise to 75 percent by 2024. A connected car is simply a vehicle with an internet connection. These types of cars are more comfortable to operate and can capture and store your data. Based on research, most people get into their vehicle following this procedure: use a key fob to unlock the car door, get into the driver’s seat, link their smartphone to the vehicle’s infotainment system, and then drive off.
Recently, connected cars have come under scrutiny with many people questioning the safety of the driver’s data. Furthermore, many linked car owners are not aware of the various ways they could protect their private data and automobiles.
Here is a list of ways you can protect your information from the driver’s seat.
Key fob security
Img Source: motoringresearch.com
Manufacturers have produced vehicles with passive entry. This means that the car door will automatically unlock when you approach them with the key fob in your hands. Statistics show that in 2018, the majority of the vehicles manufactured by Tesla were stolen through key fob hacking. Before that, most people were unaware that key fobs could be hacked, resulting in the theft of the vehicle.
Drivers can now switch the passive entry on or off to solve this problem. Tesla has made it even easier by enabling you to do it through their company’s app. Nonetheless, you can also put your key fob into a metal case lined with aluminum foil, and this will block signals, hence protecting you from hackers.
Personal data
Img Source: theverge.com
Research shows that 70 percent of people who own connected cars have used or are using vehicle-smartphone integration available from EyeRide. This connection enables you to make calls to your contacts or listen to music and podcasts while driving. However, it is essential to note that linking your smartphone to your car gives the vehicle’s infotainment system access to your data such as contacts.
The data is stored, and if not deleted, the next person who uses your car can retrieve your personal information. Car owners and renters are given the responsibility to remove data from the car’s system. This can be done from the vehicle’s settings menu where you can factory reset the car’s system.
Data security updates
Img Source: interset.com
Car manufacturers often update their vehicle’s software. Unlike computer updates, which happens automatically, connected car’s updates are done through USB, which requires you to visit your local dealer. Vehicle software updates are done to help you access new features and cover up any security holes that can be attacked by hackers.
Most car manufacturers don’t alert their clients when they make software updates. Therefore, you are required to frequently check the manufacturer’s websites or enquire from your local dealer.
Physical access
Hackers can access your vehicle if you forget to lock it. Therefore, other than using classic key fobs to lock your car, you can use a digital keypad, which is inspired by car manufacturer Ford. To use this numeric keypad, you have to develop and implement a lock code that you can easily remember.