Fiat Issues Software Patch After Hackers Take Over Car

[Suika]

(click for sauce)

After hearing about the Jeep Cherokee, Fiat decided to add more security to their vehicles.

 

Very recently, many articles sprung up about hackers taking total control of a 2014 Jeep Cherokee, and killing the engine while the driver was still going very fast. A very impressive feat on part of the hackers, but an even greater statement that cars will need serious security improvements if they're to be inter-connected. Fiat plans to do just that.

 

Fiat Chrysler on Wednesday said it is offering a software patch for some of its internet-connected vehicles after a report showing hackers seizing control of a moving 2014 Jeep Cherokee.

 

Interesting to see somebody finally step up to the plate with security like that, the Jeep being taken over could be a start, without serious security drivers could be at a very real risk. In a lighter scenario, just imagine hackers completely locking you out of your vehicle unless you pay them for access.
 

Fiat Chrysler claimed no first-hand knowledge of any of its vehicles being hacked and released a statement saying that software updates are sometimes required "for improved security protection to reduce the potential risk of unauthorized and unlawful access to vehicle systems."  

 

Fiat Chrysler has updated more vehicles in the past but it's wonderful to see them continuing the trend, constantly improving existing security.

 

So what do you guys think, is car security a real issue? Will we need anti-virus software for our cars before long?

[Ceatra]

I hope motor bikes don't become connected...

 

Imagine....

 

Skynet.... Terminator...

[Ekpyrosis]

Just imagine, you really need to drive somewhere, but when you start, or shall I say boot your machine, it has to install updates 30 minutes long before you can hit the road.

[Beskamir]

This is why I don't trust things that have the ability to connect wirelessly. They will always have security flaws which will can be exploited by someone. At least with a physical connection the cracker would have to have physical access which would be much more difficult for them to achieve without raising suspicions.

[Snickerzz]

Just imagine, you really need to drive somewhere, but when you start, or shall I say boot your machine, it has to install updates 30 minutes long before you can hit the road.

installing service pack 1/3