The Silent Threat: How Cars Are Being Hacked – And What You Can Do About It

Cars aren’t just machines anymore. They’re packed with sensors, software, and connectivity that make them smarter, safer, and more convenient. But that same tech is opening doors for hackers. From keyless entry to remote diagnostics, modern vehicles are now accessible points for bad actors. The rise in thefts of cars with advanced features isn’t just about keys or locks—it’s about how deeply technology is embedded in every system. These systems aren’t built with security as a priority. And that means someone can take over a car without ever touching it. The good news? You don’t have to be a tech expert to protect yourself. Just knowing what’s at risk and taking simple steps can go a long way.

The shift in how cars work has created real security gaps. What used to be just a few buttons or a dashboard now runs on networks that can be accessed remotely. That’s not just a convenience—it’s a risk. As more features connect, the chances of a breach grow. And once a vehicle’s system is compromised, the damage can spread quickly. From stealing data to disabling safety features, the threats aren’t theoretical. They’re already happening. So it’s not enough to rely on manufacturers to fix things. Owners need to stay alert, keep systems updated, and understand what’s behind the scenes.

How Modern Vehicles Are Vulnerable

• Keyless Entry Systems Are Easy to Spoof: Cars today often use radio signals to unlock and start. Hackers can pick up these signals and replay them—like a copy of a key fob—so the car thinks it’s getting a real command. This lets them open the door and start the engine without a key. Faraday pouches help, but only if used correctly. They don’t stop every attack, especially when hackers use better tools or relay signals through nearby devices.
• Electronic Control Modules Hold Software Flaws: The brain of a car—its electronic control modules—manages everything from engine performance to braking. These systems run on software that can have bugs or backdoors. Even small mistakes in code can let hackers take control. While standards like SAE J3061 and ISO/SAE 21434 are helping, they’re still being adopted slowly. And with so many modules working together, it’s hard to catch every flaw before a car goes on the road.
• The OBD Port Is a Backdoor: The on-board diagnostics port was meant for mechanics, but now it’s a common entry point. Hackers can plug in a simple tool and access everything from engine settings to GPS data. In some cases, they can even unlock doors or turn off safety features. Without strong software locks and regular updates, this port remains a weak spot.
• Connected Data Creates New Risks: Cars today collect tons of personal data—where you drive, when, how you use the car. That data moves across networks, sometimes in real time. If a hacker gets into the system, they could track your movements, learn your habits, or even send commands to change how the car behaves. The more data shared, the more exposed the vehicle becomes.
• Standards Are a Step Forward—But Not Enough: SAE J3061 and ISO/SAE 21434 offer a foundation for secure car design. They guide how software is tested, how code is reviewed, and how systems are protected. But these standards aren’t perfect. They’re still evolving, and new threats keep showing up. That means ongoing updates and real-world testing are necessary to keep up.

The truth is, car security isn’t something one company can solve alone. It takes collaboration between makers, software providers, and owners. Being aware of the risks—and acting on them—is the best defense you can have.

And it doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits—like keeping your car’s software updated, using a Faraday pouch when you’re not home, and being cautious about connecting to unknown devices—can make a big difference.