Many BMW automobiles have been hacked by Chinese security researchers. In March of 2018, they discovered 14 points of vulnerability in many BMW models. These security flaws can allow a hacker to take control of your car while you’re driving it.
BMW Models Effected
The BMW models that were found to have up to 14 different vulnerabilities in the conducted research in March 2018 are the BMW i Series, BMW X Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series. The model years range from 2012 to 2018.
What Can Be Hacked
Some of the features that can be hacked in these cars are found in the cyber connected entertainment system. There were 8 different flaws found.
There were 4 flaws found in the Telematics Control Unit (TCU) which gives features like unlocking the car remotely, telephony service that lets you dial the phone or other features, and accident assistance.
The Central Gateway Module was found to have 2 different flaws. This module is sort of a brain that receives diagnostic messages for the car from the TCU and infotainment unit and sends them to other parts of the vehicle.
What It All Means
Some of these flaws allow a hacker to take control of the vehicle by exploiting the flaws to control the car’s electrical system. In a nutshell, a hacker could take complete control of your vehicle, whether you are driving it or it is sitting in your garage.
What to Do
Patches are being rolled out by BMW. You need to visit your BMW dealer in order to have the patch applied to your vehicle. Some of the patches are applied over the air, like the patch for the TCU unit, but others will require an appointment at your BMW dealer.
