Chinese cars and cybersecurity risks in modern markets
High-tech Chinese vehicles with advanced electronics face increasing threats of theft. Reports from RIA Novosti, citing Shamil Magomedov, head of the Smart Information Security Systems department at the RTU MIREA Institute of Cybersecurity and Digital Technologies, indicate that these cars can be accessed remotely through cellular, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi connections.
He notes that the CAN protocol adds another vulnerability layer. Designed in the 1980s to bind all sensors and devices into a single network, CAN creates a single point of failure that hackers can exploit.
To reduce risk, industry guidance emphasizes sticking to manufacturer instructions, installing updates only from official sources, and avoiding self-repairs or system reinstallations without legitimate support.
Recent theft dynamics show that in the first nine months of 2023, Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi models were the most stolen in Russia. The Kia K5 topped theft charts, followed by Hyundai Palisade and Hyundai Santa Fe crossovers. In the premium segment, Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class were frequently targeted. Among Chinese brands, Chery Tiggo led in thefts. Moscow accounted for 45% of all thefts in the third quarter of the year, with the Moscow region and Samara region also appearing in the top three.
Earlier reports highlighted schemes aimed at deceiving drivers with fuel cards, a sign that theft operators continuously adapt their methods.