The Digital Achilles’ Heel of Automakers
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with connected vehicles and smart infrastructure enhancing user experience. However, these advancements introduce new security risks, as car apps offering remote functionalities like door unlocking, GPS tracking, and diagnostics are increasingly targeted by fraudsters. Unauthorized access to vehicles and sensitive data threatens consumer safety and brand trust.
Two major threats include Account Takeover (ATO) attacks, where criminals hijack user accounts to manipulate vehicle functions or steal personal data, and Bot Attacks, which automate fraudulent activities at scale. Security breaches have already exposed these vulnerabilities.
By the end of 2024, a cloud misconfiguration leaked GPS data from 800,000 electric vehicles across Volkswagen, Audi, Škoda, and Seat, while in 2024, a flaw in Kia’s web portal allowed hackers to remotely control millions of vehicles. In 2023, a 19-year-old hacker compromised Tesla’s security in ten countries, disabling cameras, unlocking doors, and even starting vehicles.
Hackers exploit these weaknesses using credential stuffing, phishing, malware injection, and reverse engineering of apps. These attacks go beyond data theft, putting both drivers and automotive brands at risk.
How Vehicle Fraud Threatens Lives and Reputations
Security breaches in vehicles present two main risks for drivers: physical safety and data security. Attackers could disable safety features, steal the vehicle, or even take control, putting passengers at risk. At the same time, sensitive personal data could be exposed, leading to identity theft or fraud.
For automotive brands, the consequences can be equally severe. Security breaches erode consumer trust, damage brand reputation, and may lead to regulatory fines or legal liabilities. Negative press and public scrutiny can result in declining sales, while the cost of post-incident recovery, security patches, and potential recalls can be substantial. Failing to address cybersecurity vulnerabilities not only impacts current operations but also weakens future competitiveness in the connected vehicle market.
Hackers Innovate Faster Than You
Despite these risks, many car manufacturers are still slow to adopt robust security measures. Raising awareness about these threats is essential to drive action within the industry. In response to the growing cybersecurity concerns, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) introduced regulation UN R155 in 2022, which mandates car manufacturers to establish incident response plans, collaborate with industry peers to share security best practices, conduct continuous risk assessments, and integrate security into the vehicle design process.
To combat vehicle fraud effectively, automakers must prioritize the protection of mobile apps from cyber threats, safeguard driver accounts from Account Takeovers, and leverage third-party intelligence to anticipate and mitigate potential attacks. Strengthening authentication mechanisms, implementing real-time monitoring, and integrating fraud detection technologies are crucial to enhancing security.
XTN Keeps Vehicles Safe and Drivers Secure
XTN’s AppSec solution delivers app protection, offering a robust defense against cyber threats targeting vehicle apps. By combining detailed risk evaluations and multi-modal identification, we ensure only legitimate users can access sensitive data and vehicle functions, blocking unauthorized attempts. Our solution also includes obfuscation and Runtime Application Self-Protection (RASP) to prevent manipulation and mitigate advanced threats like Man In The App and Man In The Middle attacks.
Advanced Bot Detection further strengthens security by identifying non-human interactions and malware-related threats. In addition to protecting data, our solution secures the driver’s physical safety, boosting consumer confidence by safeguarding personal information and vehicle access.
Seamlessly integrating into existing security frameworks, XTN’s solution is scalable, cost-effective, and easy to deploy. With minimal effort, you can enhance security, strengthen brand reputation, and drive a high return on investment.
What’s Next for Vehicle Security?
As the automotive industry continues to integrate smart technologies, the risk of vehicle fraud is expected to rise. Automakers must take proactive steps to secure their digital ecosystems. The future of vehicle security depends on stronger regulations, improved cybersecurity solutions, and collaboration among industry stakeholders. Only by prioritizing security automakers can protect their customers and maintain trust in their brands.
Stay ahead of emerging threats, secure your vehicles and protect your drivers. Fill out the form to discover how XTN can enhance your security framework
