# Connected Cars: Smart, Convenient, but Vulnerable to Cyberattacks

The rise of connected cars has brought about unprecedented convenience and innovation to the automotive industry. With over 100 million lines of code, modern vehicles now rival fighter jets in complexity, yet they often lack the necessary cybersecurity measures to safeguard them against malicious attacks.

## The Risk of Remote Hacking

A staggering 65% of drivers believe that their vehicle can be hacked remotely, highlighting a growing concern about the vulnerability of connected cars. However, despite this awareness, only 19% feel confident that their car is protected from hackers. This disparity is further exacerbated when drivers compare their cars to other connected devices, such as smartphones and computers, which receive regular security updates and benefit from well-established cybersecurity ecosystems.

## The Disconnect Between Consumers and Automakers

The gap between consumer concerns about cyber threats and the slower pace of industry response has created a significant risk and opportunity. Most drivers are worried that a cyberattack could cause an accident or put their lives at risk, with nearly half citing physical safety as a top concern. A striking 79% say protecting their physical safety from cyberattacks is more important than protecting personal data.

## Software Updates: The Weak Link in Connected Cars

Connected vehicles face a paradoxical challenge: the same systems that deliver crucial safety updates can also create new entry points for attackers. An astonishing 80% of drivers believe that software updates could be hacked, demonstrating their understanding that over-the-air (OTA) updates are both a strength and a potential weakness.

## The Role of Third-Party Components

The inclusion of third-party components adds to cybersecurity risks, with most drivers demanding transparency about the origins of their vehicle's software. This concern is particularly acute when it comes to AI-powered systems, which will become increasingly prevalent in vehicles by 2030.

## Accountability and Expectations

Consumers expect automakers to take primary or shared responsibility for cybersecurity issues, even if they arise from third-party components. A concerning 70% of drivers say they might consider buying older, less connected vehicles to lower their cybersecurity risk. On the other hand, most consumers believe that strong cybersecurity will influence their purchasing decisions, with a third willing to pay extra for enhanced protection in their car.

## The Future of Connected Cars

As CEO of RunSafe Security, Joe Saunders notes: "Connected cars have become computers on wheels, and with that transformation comes new risks that consumers increasingly recognize." Automakers who invest in transparent, proactive security measures will capture a competitive advantage, while those who lag behind risk losing market share to competitors or driving customers away from connected cars altogether.

The shift in awareness about cybersecurity threats is fuelling demand for solutions that go beyond protecting personal data and focus on keeping safety-critical systems secure. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it is essential that manufacturers prioritize transparency, accountability, and proactive security measures to address the growing concerns of consumers.