With more and more advanced technology making its way into our vehicles,  it was only a matter of time until hackers would make their way from our computers and into our four-wheeled friends. Security researchers Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek best known in the auto industry for hacking a Ford Escape and remotely control the brakes via a computer, the duo has since worked to are out to find out which cars are most at risk of falling victim to hackers.

Of the 24 models tested, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee was deemed to be one of the easiest targets. Following close behind was the 2015 Infiniti Q50 and the 2015 Cadillac Escalade.

The team said “it really depends on the architecture: If you can hack the radio, can you send messages to the brakes or the steering? And if you can, what can you do with them?”  The pair acknowledge that it could be wrong in making specific assumptions, due to the lack of verified real-world hacks. But the ratings are based on several criteria such as the “attack surface”. This surface is based on wireless communication systems that have been making their entries into vehicles ever so subtly. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, along with automated braking or lane assist systems that allow the wireless systems to interact with them to control the vehicle.

The group is pushing automakers to prioritize building more secure electronics to protect against the latest attacks, especially for newer cars that allow the onboard computers to steer and brake.

Source: LeftLane