FBI

FBI Warns Automakers, Owners About Vehicle Hacking Risks

NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind told reporters in July 2015 that automakers must move fast to address hacking issues

The FBI and U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a bulletin Thursday warning that connected vehicle technologies in modern cars are "increasingly vulnerable" to hacking.

In July 2015, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV recalled 1.4 million U.S. vehicles to install software after a magazine report raised concerns about hacking, the first action of its kind for the auto industry.

Also last year, General Motors issued a security update for a smartphone app that could have allowed a hacker to take control of some functions of a plug-in hybrid electric Chevrolet Volt, like starting the engine and unlocking the doors.

"While not all hacking incidents may result in a risk to safety — such as an attacker taking control of a vehicle — it is important that consumers take appropriate steps to minimize risk," the FBI bulletin said.

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