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How Cybersecurity in ADAS Protects Smart Vehicles from Hackers


Cybersecurity in Commercial Vehicles to Protect from Hacking and Malicious Attacks

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are transforming vehicle safety and convenience, using machine learning, sensor fusion, and computer vision to assist or take control when necessary. However, as more vehicles are equipped with ADAS, they become increasingly vulnerable to cybersecurity threats. By 2028, the automotive cybersecurity market is expected to surge to USD 6 billion.


Why Cybersecurity Matters for ADAS


The Expanding Role of ADAS in Vehicles


ADAS features, such as collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance, are becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles. These systems reduce driver error and improve road safety. As the ADAS market approaches an estimated 655 million units by 2030, cybersecurity within these systems is essential for maintaining safety.


Potential Vulnerabilities in ADAS


As ADAS systems connect with other vehicle components, they become vulnerable to attacks. Key components at risk include:


  • GPS Systems: Essential for navigation, they can be manipulated, causing incorrect vehicle directions.

  • Sensors and Radar: Hijacked sensors may send false data, leading to incorrect vehicle responses.

  • Telematics Systems: Cyber intrusions can expose personal and operational data, compromising both privacy and security.


Statistic: In 2022, remote attacks comprised 84.5% of all automotive cybersecurity incidents, with 40.1% targeting back-end servers.


Real-World Examples of ADAS Cybersecurity Threats


Automotive Supply Chain can be compromised by Malicious Actors
Automotive Industry Supply Chain

Several incidents demonstrate the risks ADAS systems face:


1. Jeep Vulnerability: Remote Control Exploitation


A group of researchers demonstrated a serious vulnerability in Jeep vehicles, where hackers could remotely disable the vehicle's engine using a laptop. This flaw was exacerbated by the fact that Jeep's software updates were not adequately securing the connection between the car and external devices.


The researchers were able to hijack the vehicle remotely and take full control of it, raising alarms about the security of connected cars and the potential for malicious exploitation in real-world scenarios.


2. Tesla Model X Keyless Entry Hack


A security researcher discovered critical vulnerabilities in the Tesla Model X's keyless entry system, allowing a car thief to unlock and steal the vehicle within 90 seconds. The attack exploits a lack of code signing in the key fob firmware, enabling the hacker to rewrite the firmware and extract an unlock code via Bluetooth.


Once inside the vehicle, the hacker could pair their own key fob and drive away undetected. Tesla has acknowledged the issue and is rolling out a patch to address these vulnerabilities, but the incident highlights ongoing security risks associated with keyless entry systems in modern vehicles.


3. Fleet Management Software Vulnerability


A significant vulnerability in Digital Communications Technologies’ Syrus4 IoT gateway has raised concerns about the security of fleet management software. Discovered by researchers, this vulnerability allows hackers to gain access to backend systems controlling thousands of vehicles, enabling them to execute remote commands, including the ability to stop vehicles on the highway.


Despite repeated attempts to inform the vendor about the issue, the lack of response has left this vulnerability unaddressed for months, underscoring the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in fleet management technologies.


How Cybersecurity Works in ADAS


Automotive Supply Chain can be compromised by Malicious Actors
Security Challenges of Commercial Road Transportation Networks

Secure Communication Between Sensors and Control Systems


ADAS sensors continuously share data with the vehicle’s central control system. If this communication is intercepted or altered, safety is compromised. Encryption ensures that data remains private and unaltered during transmission.



Firewalls, Intrusion Detection, and Encryption Technologies


Cybersecurity for ADAS involves multiple layers of protection:


  • Firewalls: Block unauthorised access.

  • Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Detect and respond to cyber threats in real time.

  • Data Encryption: Protects data from being accessed or manipulated by unauthorised parties.


Starkenn’s Approach to ADAS Cybersecurity


Starkenn employs advanced solutions, including AI-driven security protocols and telemetry-based data encryption, to secure ADAS-equipped vehicles. With machine learning, these systems can detect suspicious behaviour and respond swiftly.


The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Securing ADAS


AI helps Starkenn’s cybersecurity systems learn from patterns and adapt. These technologies analyse vast data streams from ADAS sensors, detecting anomalies to prevent attacks.



End-to-end protection with Telematics and Data Encryption


End-to-end data encryption secures sensitive information throughout its journey. This approach is essential for protecting both commercial fleets and individual vehicles from evolving threats.


Future Challenges in ADAS Cybersecurity


Increasing Complexity of Cyber Threats


As vehicles become more autonomous, they interact with smart city infrastructure, 5G networks, and other vehicles (V2X), increasing the complexity of potential threats. The Ericsson Connected Cars report projects that by 2025, vehicle value will be heavily software-driven, with potential new vulnerabilities.


The Need for Regulation and Standardization


Standardized cybersecurity frameworks are essential as ADAS and autonomous vehicles enter global markets. Countries and agencies are moving towards regulations like UN R 155 and ISO/SAE 21434 to define minimum cybersecurity standards for vehicle systems.



Conclusion


Securing ADAS from cyber threats is vital for road safety and advancing autonomous vehicle technology. Starkenn offers robust ADAS solutions that address the unique risks tech-equipped vehicles face. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, cybersecurity will be critical to realizing a safe and secure future on the road.


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