Don't Panic says BMW
No security chink in Munich's telematics systems, manufacturer declaresBMW has placed it squarely on record: its telematic systems won't provide a backdoor for ne'r-do-wells to break in and make off with your bimmer.
"It is simply not possible — using the telematics system — to break into or tap into the driving functionality of a BMW," said Piers Scott, Head of Corporate Communications for BMW Australia.
Scott was responding to a report last week concerning a presentation — War Texting: Identifying and Interacting with Devices on the Telephone Network — delivered at a recent convention for those interested in electronic hacking, Black Hat USA 2011. BMW's technical boffins are familiar with the presentation, but have stated definitively that BMW cars are not affected.
During the presentation one of the hacking examples demonstrated the ability to unlock and further control many vehicle on-board computer systems using a mobile phone and a smattering of off-the-shelf electronics.
BMW's Munich-based technicians closely analysed the work done by the hackers on stage at Black Hat USA 2011. Their findings: the described attack scenario would not be possible with a BMW car.
BMW says that its vehicles “…offer no possibility to start the car with telematic services. There is no possibility [of interfering] with braking or driving functions by remote control or any connected functionalities.”
“All possibilities to open a car (telematic services or wireless key technologies) [use] state-of-the-art security technologies. Currently there is no attack scenario known that would pose a security problem for BMW’s systems. “
BMW also told motoring.com.au just how seriously they take security when it comes to the modern vehicle, getting on-board with researchers working in the fields of Security in Embedded IP based systems and the EVITA project, aimed not only at improving vehicle intrusion protection but also focused on E-safety.
Essentially, what BMW is trying to get across to those concerned about the foibles of increasing technology in their cars, is that theoretical demonstrations like those shown at the Black Hat conference are just that, theoretical. Car manufacturers use these sophisticated hacking techniques to further hone the systems that go into both today's vehicles and those in the future.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
