Jaguar Land Rover Admits Hackers May Have Taken Data
LONDON - Jaguar Land Rover has acknowledged that hackers may have accessed sensitive data from its vehicles, sparking concerns about the security of connected cars.
According to a statement released by the company on Friday, an investigation into a cyberattack on its systems revealed that hackers may have gained unauthorized access to data from some of its vehicles. The company did not specify how many vehicles were affected or what type of data was accessed.
"We take the security of our customers' data very seriously," said a spokesperson for Jaguar Land Rover. "We are working closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate this incident and prevent similar attacks in the future."
The incident highlights the growing concern about the vulnerability of connected cars to cyber threats. As vehicles become increasingly reliant on software and internet connectivity, they also become more susceptible to hacking.
"Connected cars are a prime target for hackers," said Dr. Chris Mitchell, a cybersecurity expert at the University of Surrey. "If a hacker can access a vehicle's systems, they could potentially take control of the car or steal sensitive data."
Jaguar Land Rover has not disclosed how the cyberattack occurred, but experts speculate that it may have been carried out using a vulnerability in the company's software.
"The automotive industry is still playing catch-up when it comes to cybersecurity," said Dr. Mitchell. "Companies like Jaguar Land Rover need to invest more in security measures and work closely with experts to prevent these types of attacks."
The incident has raised questions about the safety and reliability of connected cars, particularly as they become increasingly integrated into smart cities and transportation systems.
Jaguar Land Rover is working to notify affected customers and provide them with support. The company has also announced plans to enhance its cybersecurity measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, experts warn that cybersecurity will be a growing concern for manufacturers and consumers alike.
"We need to take a more proactive approach to cybersecurity," said Dr. Mitchell. "The consequences of a successful cyberattack on a connected car could be severe, and it's only a matter of time before we see a major incident."
Jaguar Land Rover has not disclosed when the cyberattack occurred or how long it took for the company to discover the breach.
In related news, the European Union is set to introduce new regulations governing the cybersecurity of connected cars. The regulations, which are expected to come into effect in 2023, will require manufacturers to implement robust security measures and notify customers in the event of a data breach.
As the industry continues to grapple with the challenges of connected car cybersecurity, experts warn that consumers need to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves.
"Consumers need to be informed about the potential risks associated with connected cars," said Dr. Mitchell. "They should also take steps to ensure their vehicles are properly secured and up-to-date with the latest security patches."
*Reporting by Bbc.*