The Cyber Risks of Electric Vehicles

In 2023, it is estimated that 125 million electric cars will be on the road worldwide. With the increase in the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), it is essential to be aware of the potential cyber security risks associated with them. While EVs have many benefits, they also come with unique cyber security challenges.

Risks Faced By Electric Vehicles

The biggest risk is that electric vehicles are connected to the internet and can be remotely controlled. This means that hackers could potentially gain access to a vehicle's systems and take control of it. Additionally, electric vehicles rely on batteries to power them, which can be vulnerable to attack. For example, in 2012, a group of hackers was able to remotely disable the brakes of a Jeep Cherokee.

Another cyber threat of electric vehicles is that they generate a large amount of data that can be accessed by manufacturers, service providers, and other third parties. This data could include information about a driver's location, driving habits, and more. If this data falls into the wrong hands, it could be used for malicious purposes.

Electric vehicle charging stations also pose a serious cyber security threat due to their vulnerability to hacking. Hackers can easily copy ID badges and use them for different transactions by rewiring charging requests and disabling charging points. This poses a severe threat to the safety and security of electric vehicles and their owners. In addition, hackers can also use charging stations to launch attacks on other parts of the power grid, which could cause widespread disruption and damage.

In one study conducted by Carlos Alvarez College of Business, the researcher found out that there are 16 different EV charging systems, and they have uncovered 13 significant areas of security threats and vulnerabilities. The study shows that the issues like manipulating the firmware or disguising themselves as actual users, and accessing user data can be caused by attackers. The researcher also found that the electric vehicle charging stations are also vulnerable to cyber-attacks which could cause widespread disruption and damage.

The threat of hacking electric vehicle charging stations is a growing concern for governments and businesses worldwide. In response to this threat, many organizations are working to develop more secure charging station technologies.

How to mitigate cyber threats of electric vehicles 

While there are many risks associated with electric vehicles, there are also steps that can be taken to mitigate them.  Some of the steps that must be taken to mitigate the cyber threats of electric vehicles include: 

1. Ensuring that all-electric vehicles have proper automotive cyber security systems in place. 

2. Educating drivers on how to safely and securely charge their vehicles. 

3. Only charging electric vehicles at trusted and secure locations. 

4. Regularly check for updates and security patches for all-electric vehicle components. 

5. Reporting any suspicious activity related to electric vehicles to the proper authorities. 

By taking these steps, we can help to ensure that electric vehicles are safe and secure from cyber threats.