Digital transformation is rapidly happening across the globe, resulting in the emergence of new technologies such as generative AI (Artificial Intelligence), machine learning, and cloud computing, which have been adopted and integrated into business operations by almost every industry. These technologies undoubtedly bring significant advantages to any business, like accurate data collection and improved automation.

The emergence of these technologies has also prompted the automotive industry to make the leap from gas-powered to electric-powered and, to varying degrees, from analogue driving systems to automated and computerised driving systems.

Though the electric-powered car was invented as early as 1832 by the Scottish inventor Robert Anderson, it was not until the emergence of modern technologies that the automotive industry truly began its digital transformation, which has in turn resulted in Electric Vehicles (EVs) populating roads worldwide.

As automotive technology continues to progress, EVs have become more than just electric-powered vehicles. EVs are also equipped with advanced computerised driving systems that enable them to drive and move autonomously—and with advanced computerised driving systems that enable EV owners to connect mobile devices to their modern vehicles to receive or make calls hands-free and more.

Unfortunately, these same digital capabilities expose both EVs and their owners to various cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities—and one of these is automotive hacking.

Automotive hacking or cyber-carjacking is a cybercriminal activity where malicious parties forcefully and illegally gain access to a modern vehicle computer system and connected networks by exploiting vulnerabilities in software or communication systems such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. This is a real and growing concern, and it can have far-reaching and potentially grave implications, especially for the owner and even pedestrians.

These implications and more are the overriding themes of this e-book, where Cybersecurity ASEAN compiled the insights of experts and industry leaders on automotive hacking, its consequences, and how this modern type of carjacking will shape the future of automated driving and EVs in general. 

So, strap on your seat belts as we will be navigating the nefarious world of automotive hacking.