Mitsubishi Beefs Up Cybersecurity
Photo: Jessica L. Tozer
Driving can be a safer, more enjoyable experience with advanced technology — and the Mitsubishi cybersecurity team wants to make sure it stays that way. Hackers can infiltrate a vehicle through its infotainment system and take control of its computer-controlled features. While this hasn’t occurred on a Mitsubishi, the automaker is taking steps to ensure the safety of their drivers and the integrity of their cars.
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Mitsubishi’s cyber defense technology
To protect their customers from malicious cyber attacks, Mitsubishi has developed a robust, multi-layered defense system. This advance focuses on strengthening the head unit, which acts as the vehicle’s main link to the internet.
Its security functions are based on cyber defense technology originally developed to safeguard the distribution of electricity, water, natural gas, and petroleum. It also features an intrusion detection system and a faster boot-up sequence that verifies the vehicle’s software before you drive. This powerful-but-lightweight security technology demands limited machine resources, so it won’t slow down the car’s Mitsubishi Connect infotainment system.
Cybersecurity concerns
While moves like The Fate of the Furious dramatize what hackers can do with a car, real-life cybersecurity experts Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek demonstrated that they could take control of a Jeep Cherokee’s infotainment system, engine, and even disable the brakes at low speeds. Fortunately, Chrysler patched the vulnerability. Cybersecurity concerns also stifle the self-driving car industry, where malicious hacks pose a severe threat to passenger safety. Michigan has proposed severe anti-car-hacking laws, citing the potential for damage that could occur at the hands of a hacker.
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With every innovation comes a few growing pains, and high-tech cars are no exception. Hopefully, Mitsubishi’s proactive approach to cybersecurity will head off threats before they have a chance to do any damage.
Sources: Mitsubishi, USA Today
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