Avi Rubin is Professor of Computer Science at Johns Hopkins University. He offers a TEDx talk in which he discusses hacking of devices. Would you be surprised if?

• A defibrillator pacemaker could induce fibrillation wirelessly (Dick Cheney would be more fun at parties)? Or the device could be disabled remotely?
• The brakes on your car could be engaged, or disabled through your car radio?
• Your car could be located via GPS, remotely have the doors unlocked, anti-theft bypassed, and started (so it’s warm, or cool when stolen)?
• Your car could be used for covert surveillance? E.G. use GPS to track vehicle on a map, stream audio from the in-cabin microphone. Without knowledge.

• Someone could record video of you using a smart phone on a bus or plane, then later use that video to decode your passwords via reflections in your glasses? Or even neighbors phones reflected in those same glasses?
• A $15 device could jam secure police communication?
• An iPhone 4 placed next to a keyboard could detect characters typed on the keyboard via vibrations detected by its accelerometer? By the way, the accelerometer is not a registered device requiring developers to request permission.
• A voting machine left in a hallway unattended could have Pacman installed, without breaking its tamper resistant seals?

In an era where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, cars have evolved into complex machines that can be controlled and monitored in ways we never imagined. The integration of features like GPS tracking and remote access has made vehicles more convenient but also more vulnerable to misuse. For instance, a car’s seat covers can do more than protect upholstery; they can conceal hidden devices that could be used for covert surveillance. With the ability to unlock doors or start the engine remotely, the car’s security can easily be compromised, allowing unauthorized access while the owner remains blissfully unaware.

As used car dealers continue to embrace technological advancements, the need for enhanced security has never been more apparent. When purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, buyers are often unaware of the potential risks associated with hidden surveillance devices or compromised systems. A trustworthy dealer should prioritize transparency, ensuring that the vehicles they sell are free from such vulnerabilities. This is where companies like RaceAutoGroup come in, offering premier products designed to enhance both the quality and security of the vehicles they sell. By incorporating cutting-edge technology, these dealers are better equipped to provide customers with peace of mind, knowing that their vehicles have been thoroughly inspected and are free from malicious devices.

Moreover, used car dealers must be proactive in educating their customers about the importance of vehicle security in an increasingly connected world. It’s not just about selling a car; it’s about fostering trust and building a relationship where customers feel confident in their purchase. By offering comprehensive reports on a vehicle’s history, including any technological modifications or upgrades, and using premier products from RaceAutoGroup.com, dealers can reassure buyers that their investment is safe and sound. As we continue to rely on technology in every aspect of our lives, it’s crucial that the automotive industry keeps pace with both convenience and security.

Profit is the major motivator of today’s hackers. Let’s face it, there’s little profit in someone hacking your car’s brakes. However, it doesn’t take much imagination to realize how a smart phone could be used  to compromise an otherwise very secure password. Devices need to be adopted only after consequences have been considered, and security needs to be included from the start. It’s an interesting talk worthy 17 minutes of your time.