logo
Securing the future: Cybersecurity challenges and solutions for software-defined vehicles

Securing the future: Cybersecurity challenges and solutions for software-defined vehicles

Time of India22-05-2025

The evolution of the automobile, from being powered by steam to now including computerised consoles, is a commendable journey shaped by technological changes. In the 21st century, consumers can expect their vehicles to be vital to their digital lives. Previously, manufacturers and consumers focused on the hardware of an automobile, but with the current technological changes, software is gearing up to take centre stage. This means that
Software-Defined Vehicles
(SDVs) are the next evolution of the automotive industry.
SDVs are often called 'software-on-wheels' because they can enable new features, oversee operations and enhance functionality through software. This will enhance consumer experience and benefit vehicle safety and mobility.
As the development of SDVs picks up pace, it must be acknowledged that such vehicles also introduce significant
cybersecurity challenges
. While software can enhance innovation, an increasing reliance on it can also lead to compromised safety and functionality.
What recent trends tell us
Deloitte's
The future of automotive mobility to 2035
report highlights that Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) surveyed expect technology to influence business with software-enabled solutions designed to impact the mobility experience. This can boost revenue as companies begin offering ongoing asset management to consumers, from data analytics and telematics to infotainment and vehicle feature subscriptions.
The emergence of AI and machine learning will also dictate the development of SDVs, as such technologies offer great potential for enhancing the security of automotive vehicles due to their ability to detect and respond to threats in real time. The integration of such technologies into SDVs can ensure that malicious actors do not achieve success in taking control of vehicles and bolster the safety of passengers.
In addition to emerging technology and innovation, the ever-evolving regulatory landscape will have a considerable influence on the development of SDVs as governments across the globe develop rules regarding the cybersecurity provisions of connected vehicles. A recent example is the US Department of Commerce considering banning certain foreign technologies that could pose security risks to national security.
Hence, many factors will influence the development of SDVs in today's digital age.
Growing innovation coupled with evolving threats
The use of software will transform automobiles, promising to make futuristic cars a thing of reality. SDVs offer innovative features, making it possible to improve vehicle performance, strengthen vehicle safety and optimise vehicle systems. While these are exciting changes, they also increase the attack surface, leaving automobiles powered by software vulnerable to cyberattacks that can have catastrophic results, ranging from data theft to compromised safety that causes accidents. The Global Automotive Cyber Security Report from Upstream Security highlighted that remote attacks now constitute 95 percent of the incidents, primarily driven by black-hat hackers aiming for large-scale disruptions. It is the need of the hour to make cybersecurity a key priority as
cyberattacks on automobiles
increase and become more sophisticated.
Systems integrated into modern vehicles are increasingly interconnected, often communicating over internal networks. This generates multiple points of vulnerability that malicious actors can exploit. The problem is compounded by a key feature that SDVs offer: remote access. It does improve convenience and functionality, but at the same time, it can also make it easier for cybercriminals to gain control over critical vehicle functions.
Such vulnerabilities could disable crucial functions such as braking, steering and acceleration. For example, an attack on a vehicle's GPS could lead passengers into dangerous situations. Remote access can allow hackers to hold an SDV's system hostage until a ransom is paid.
According to the Deloitte Global Automotive Mobility Market Simulation Tool, 50–60 percent of future profits may be at stake if mobility providers continue their business as usual. The further integration of software into automobiles must be trodden carefully, with security as a key feature to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and the passengers.
Tackling challenges head-on
Securing SDVs from cyberattacks will require a multi-pronged and comprehensive approach. Manufacturers must consider a 'security by design' approach, as prioritised by standards such as ISO/SAE 21434 – Road Vehicles — Cybersecurity Engineering, whereby security is considered at every stage of the vehicle lifecycle.
Additionally, cryptographic key management, including practices such as secure generation, storage and rotation of cryptographic keys, can prevent unauthorised access and secure data storage within SDVs. Moreover, authentication, encryption and integrity checks must be adopted to secure OTA/FOTA software updates.
Regularly updating software and patching vulnerabilities will be key to maintaining and bolstering SDVs' security. This could go a long way in preventing hackers' exploitation. Moreover, segmenting vehicle networks can help limit the spread of potential breaches while also continuously monitoring for suspicious activity.
In conclusion, software integration into automobiles will only grow as technology advances. However, to support the long-term development of such technology, security must be the top priority. It will enhance the scope of innovation, improve consumer trust and strengthen brand reputation.
(The author is Santosh Jinugu, Partner, Deloitte India. Views are personal)

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

‘Like it survived a WWE match': Famous airline's baggage handling sparks outrage
‘Like it survived a WWE match': Famous airline's baggage handling sparks outrage

Time of India

time11 hours ago

  • Time of India

‘Like it survived a WWE match': Famous airline's baggage handling sparks outrage

A recent domestic flight has left a senior professional from Deloitte raising serious concerns over baggage handling practices in Indian aviation. The passenger, who flew with IndiGo from Delhi to Hyderabad, has accused the airline of returning his luggage in a damaged condition, with missing items, and no timely response from the support team. 'My luggage looked like it had survived a WWE match': Deloitte employee LinkedIn post: Abhishek Kumar, a senior analyst at Deloitte, took to LinkedIn to share his dissatisfaction with IndiGo after what he described as a distressing post-flight experience. According to Kumar, the luggage he had checked in at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport was severely damaged by the time it reached Hyderabad. In his LinkedIn post, Kumar wrote, 'My luggage looked like it had survived a WWE match - zips gone, locks missing, contents clearly tampered with, and surprise surprise: items missing! At IGI, my bag weighed over 14 kg. By the time I got it in Hyderabad, it was barely 13 kg.' Passenger highlights lack of response from IndiGo Apart from the physical damage, Kumar also raised concerns about IndiGo's customer service. He mentioned that despite repeated attempts to reach out for a resolution, the airline did not respond adequately. 'I've been chasing your team for a resolution like it's a toxic ex who owes me money - and yet, radio silence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Keep Your Home Efficient with This Plug-In elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Learn More Undo Honestly, pathetic service,' Kumar said in the same post. IndiGo issues brief response on social media Following the viral nature of the complaint, IndiGo responded publicly through a comment on the post. The airline said, 'Mr Kumar, we would like to understand your experience better. Request you to share your contact details and PNR via DM, and we'll get in touch with you promptly.' Similar complaints reported earlier According to the media reports, this is not the first time such an issue has surfaced involving the airline. Earlier in the month, a passenger from Goa had also alleged that her luggage was returned damaged, and claimed that follow-up attempts with the airline did not lead to any meaningful resolution. Thumb image credit: LinkedIn/Abhishek Kumar

Jakson Green bags operation & maintenance order of 1 GWp solar portfolio
Jakson Green bags operation & maintenance order of 1 GWp solar portfolio

Time of India

time14 hours ago

  • Time of India

Jakson Green bags operation & maintenance order of 1 GWp solar portfolio

New Delhi: Renewable energy player Jakson Green has secured new operation and maintenance projects of 1 gigawatt peak (GWp) solar portfolio. The company has secured the new project through its asset management arm - Jakson Green Renewables, it said in a statement. With the latest additions, Jakson Green's total operation and maintenance (O&M) portfolio now stands at 5 GWp. These projects comprise four high-capacity solar projects , ranging from 75 MWp to 435 MWp, strategically located across Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Tamil Nadu. "With a portfolio now at 5 GWp, we are well-positioned to drive sustainable energy solutions across India and beyond. Our focus remains on delivering superior operational performance and maximising returns for our clients," Kannan Krishnan , Joint Managing Director of Jakson Green, said. The Noida-based company has a solar EPC portfolio exceeding 8 GWp globally, 5 GWp of renewable O&M, and over 1.5 GWp of assets under development. PTI

IndiGo passenger claims luggage arrived broken with items missing, shares pics
IndiGo passenger claims luggage arrived broken with items missing, shares pics

India Today

time14 hours ago

  • India Today

IndiGo passenger claims luggage arrived broken with items missing, shares pics

A senior analyst at Deloitte has lashed out at IndiGo in a LinkedIn post over alleged mishandling of his luggage and poor customer Kumar shared a scathing post detailing his unpleasant experience during a recent flight from Delhi to Hyderabad and also posted pictures of his damaged his arrival in Hyderabad, Kumar found his checked-in luggage severely damaged - zippers torn, locks missing, and contents tampered with. He also claimed that several items were missing from his bag, which appeared to weigh nearly a kilogram less than it did when checked in at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International 'My luggage looked like it had survived a WWE match - zips gone, locks missing, contents clearly tampered with, and surprise surprise: items missing! At IGI, my bag weighed over 14 kg. By the time I got it in Hyderabad, it was barely 13 kg,' Kumar said in his over the lack of response from IndiGo's support team, Kumar added, 'I've been chasing your team for a resolution like it's a toxic ex who owes me money - and yet, radio silence. Honestly, pathetic service.'See the post here: IndiGo, meanwhile, reacted to the viral complaint saying, 'Mr Kumar, we would like to understand your experience better. Request you to share your contact details and PNR via DM and we'll get in touch with you promptly.' Earlier this month, a Goa-based woman also called out IndiGo after her checked-in baggage allegedly arrived damaged. The airline, she claimed, barely responded despite repeated Watch

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store