Connected Car Hacking #

• Thesis ID: 24-03
• Research Proposal: Vulnerability Research of Connected Cars
• Good to know
  • We completed 3 studies on our car (MG Marvel R Electric)
    • You can continue researching on our existing car
    • Our results are not public yet (due to our public disclosure policy)
    • It will be (partly) available to you during your research
  • However if you apply on a proper time, we have the opportunity to provide another car (This option is suggested)

Abstract #

The integration of internet connectivity in modern automobiles has transformed them into sophisticated connected cars, enhancing user experience and functionality. However, this advancement has also introduced a plethora of cybersecurity challenges. This research aims to conduct a comprehensive vulnerability assessment of connected cars, identifying potential security weaknesses, evaluating their impacts, and proposing mitigation strategies to enhance the security and resilience of these vehicles.

1. Introduction #

1.1 Background #

The automotive industry is witnessing a rapid evolution with the advent of connected cars. These vehicles leverage internet connectivity to offer advanced features such as real-time navigation, remote diagnostics, infotainment systems, and autonomous driving capabilities. However, the increased connectivity also opens up new avenues for cyber-attacks, potentially compromising vehicle safety, user privacy, and public security.

1.2 Problem Statement #

Connected cars, while offering numerous benefits, are susceptible to various cyber threats. Vulnerabilities in their complex network of electronic control units (ECUs), communication interfaces, and software systems can be exploited by malicious actors. This research seeks to uncover such vulnerabilities within connected cars, assess their potential impact, and propose robust security measures to mitigate these risks.

1.3 Objectives #

1. To identify and categorize potential vulnerabilities in connected car systems.
2. To evaluate the impact of identified vulnerabilities on vehicle safety, user privacy, and public security.
3. To propose mitigation strategies to address the identified vulnerabilities.
4. To contribute to the development of more secure connected car architectures.

2. Literature Review #

2.1 Connected Car Systems #

An overview of connected car technologies, including their architecture, communication protocols, and key components such as ECUs, sensors, and infotainment systems.

2.2 Cyber Threats to Connected Cars #

Detailed examination of known cyber threats and attack vectors targeting connected cars, including remote code execution, man-in-the-middle attacks, and physical tampering.

2.3 Vulnerability Assessment Methodologies #

Review of methodologies and frameworks used in vulnerability assessment of connected systems, including static and dynamic analysis, penetration testing, and threat modeling.

3. Research Methodology #

3.1 Phase 1: Preliminary Analysis #

1. System Analysis: Comprehensive analysis of connected car architectures, focusing on hardware components, communication interfaces, and software systems.
2. Threat Modeling: Development of threat models to identify potential attack vectors and scenarios.

3.2 Phase 2: Vulnerability Identification #

1. Static Analysis: Examination of the software codebase and configuration files for security flaws.
2. Dynamic Analysis: Monitoring the behavior of connected car systems under normal and abnormal conditions to identify security weaknesses.
3. Penetration Testing: Conducting ethical hacking attempts to exploit identified vulnerabilities, focusing on remote and physical attack vectors.

3.3 Phase 3: Impact Evaluation #

1. Risk Assessment: Evaluating the severity and potential impact of each identified vulnerability on vehicle safety, user privacy, and public security.
2. Scenario Analysis: Simulating potential attack scenarios to understand the practical implications of the vulnerabilities.

3.4 Phase 4: Mitigation and Recommendations #

1. Mitigation Strategies: Proposing technical solutions to address the identified vulnerabilities, including software patches, hardware modifications, and improved communication protocols.
2. Best Practices: Developing a set of best practices for the design, development, and deployment of secure connected car systems.

3.5 Phase 5: Validation and Testing #

1. Implementation of Mitigations: Implementing the proposed solutions and testing their effectiveness.
2. Re-evaluation: Conducting a second round of vulnerability assessments to ensure the mitigations are effective and the system is secure.

4. Expected Outcomes #

1. Comprehensive Vulnerability Report: Detailed documentation of identified vulnerabilities, their impact, and potential mitigation strategies.
2. Enhanced Security Protocols: Development of improved security protocols and best practices for connected car systems.
3. Academic Contributions: Publication of findings in academic journals and conferences to contribute to the body of knowledge in cybersecurity.

5. Timeline #

A tentative timeline.

6. Conclusion #

This research aims to enhance the security of connected cars by identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in their systems. Through rigorous analysis and testing, this study will contribute to the development of more secure, reliable, and trustworthy connected car architectures, ultimately fortifying the cybersecurity landscape of the automotive industry.

7. References #

1. Literature on connected car technologies and cybersecurity.
2. Documentation on automotive communication protocols and standards.
3. Research papers and articles on vulnerability assessment methodologies and best practices.