Boost your vehicle’s cybersecurity during the 2023 Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Learn about software updates, strong passwords, third-party device precautions, Bluetooth security, regular system checks, and minimising personal data sharing.
Introduction
On the 20th anniversary of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has launched ‘Secure Our World,’ a comprehensive cybersecurity awareness program. This innovative initiative is designed to spark a nationwide shift in behaviour, emphasising individual citizens, families, and small to medium-sized enterprises.
CISA Director Jen Easterly stated, “With ‘Secure Our World,’ we aim to spark a nationwide movement that empowers individuals, families, and businesses to take simple steps to strengthen their cyber defences.”
CISA and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) have partnered to create free resources and messaging for organisations to utilise when promoting participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month. These resources include email templates, press releases, social media posts, graphics, videos, presentations, and more.
In alignment with this initiative, we recently underscored the vital importance of incorporating automotive cybersecurity into our broader cyber defence strategy in our blog post titled ‘Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Mobility and EV Infrastructure.’ Building on that, we are providing a set of actionable steps to enhance automotive cybersecurity for consumers.
Five Ways to Enhance Your Car’s Safety
To reinforce your vehicle’s cybersecurity, consider implementing the following five measures:
1. Software Updates and Patching: Auto manufacturers regularly issue software updates and patches to address and enhance cybersecurity measures. Ensure your vehicle’s software is current by enabling automatic updates or consistently checking for new versions. This proactive approach can significantly reduce vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
2. Strong Passwords: Set up strong, complex passwords for your vehicle’s infotainment system and any other connected accounts. Utilise longer passwords that incorporate unique phrases and special characters for improved security. Avoid using easily guessed, common words.
3. Third-Party Devices: Be cautious when using third-party USB devices in your car. Stick with verified, reputable tech accessories to avoid the potential introduction of malware or hacker entry points.
4. Bluetooth Security: Turn off your Bluetooth when it’s not in use to prevent unauthorised access to your system. Only accept connections from devices you recognise and trust. This practice can help mitigate potential threats.
5. Minimal Personal Data Sharing: Be judicious when linking accounts or sharing personal data, such as your driving or parking habits. The less personal data you expose, the fewer opportunities cybercriminals have to exploit.
Conclusion
This Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an opportune time to assess and reinforce your vehicle’s digital security. Maintaining current software, using strong passwords, being cautious with third-party devices, securing Bluetooth, and limiting personal data exposure are key steps that can help protect your car from threats. Implementing these best practices contributes to the collective effort to enhance cyber safety and ‘Secure Our World’.
