We've all
heard about hackers breaking into computer networks, and even some smart home
devices, but now, they're also able to hack their way into some cars.
As car computers get more and more sophisticated, it
is possible to hack them. In fact, some people have posted video of it on
social media.
Over the summer, hackers found that by exploiting a
flawed SiriusXM Radio software, they could unlock cars - or even
remote start them. All they needed was the VIN and a device that lets them
capture a security code from a nearby key fob.
"That's
why I always give people advice: If you hang your keys up where your little key
fob is, don't hang it near your exterior door. Hide it inside a cabinet or in
the interior of the house, because they need to be within about a foot or so
with their little black box for it to pick up the antenna and extend the range
of the RFID to fool the car that the key is right next door," says Scott
Schober.
SiriusXM has now
reportedly corrected the flaw, but hackers have a way of staying one step
ahead, so this may not be the last time we see something like this.
What can
you do about this? Not a lot, experts say.
If there's
a silver lining, it's that this kind of hacking isn't easy or common. Car
manufacturers also say this flaw let hackers remote start cars, but not drive
off with them.
The bottom
line -- it's never been a good idea to leave expensive items unattended in your
car – and that's even more true today.
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