Cars Can be Hijacked by Playing a CD

As products get smarter, they also become more susceptible to being hacked.

Cars are no different. In fact, a researcher has found that a car can be hacked with the playing of a CD. It wasn't just any song, though. This song was laced with malicious code that was loaded on the CD itself.

"Give me 18 seconds of playtime," said researcher Stefan Savage, "and we can insert the attack code." But don't expect hackers to use that modus operandi. But it is an eye opener for the auto industry. What is of concern is the poorly written code by third party manufacturers.

Installing security features like firewalls and detection systems isn't a simple task. At least, not in cars. Cost is a huge factor.

The problem is now in the hands of the manufacturers, so it is just a matter of time to see what will be the results.

"As an academic, it felt weird not publishing my research," Savage said. "But, it's a trade-off. Had we published, then there would be a pool of cars out there that were easily hackable with a little knowledge."

Source: Komando