Connected vehicles are intelligent, user-friendly, and vulnerable to cyberattack

Consumers are increasingly concerned about vulnerabilities in their vehicles, which significantly impacts their purchasing behaviour and brand loyalty, according to RunSafe Security. Modern vehicles operate on over 100 million lines of code, surpassing that of most fighter jets, yet they often lack adequate cybersecurity measures. While innovations such as over-the-air (OTA) updates and smartphone integration offer convenience, they also present new opportunities for cybercriminals. A notable 65% of drivers believe that remote hacking of their vehicle is possible. Despite this awareness, only 19% feel very confident that their car is protected from hackers. When comparing their vehicles to other connected devices, 40% of drivers believe their car is as secure or more secure than their smartphone or computer, which benefit from regular security updates and more established cybersecurity ecosystems. This growing awareness of cyber threats indicates a tipping point, as concerns about cybersecurity are becoming mainstream faster than automakers can respond, creating both risks and opportunities.

Physical safety is a primary concern for many drivers, with a significant number expressing worries that a cyberattack could lead to accidents or endanger their lives. Nearly half of the respondents are apprehensive about life-threatening scenarios, while 79% prioritise protecting their physical safety from cyberattacks over safeguarding personal data. This shift in perception is leading consumers to view connected cars as a distinct category of cybersecurity risk, where attacks could result in real physical harm. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for solutions that focus on securing safety-critical systems rather than merely protecting personal data. Additionally, connected vehicles face a paradox where the same systems that provide essential safety updates can also serve as entry points for attackers. Approximately 80% of drivers believe that software updates could be hacked, highlighting their understanding of the dual nature of OTA updates. Concerns extend to third-party components, with most drivers wanting automakers to be transparent about the origins of their software, especially as AI-powered systems become more prevalent. By 2030, it is estimated that 12% of vehicles will feature Level 3 and 4 autonomous driving capabilities, a significant increase from just 1% in 2025.

Consumers hold automakers accountable for cybersecurity breaches, despite the complex network of vehicle suppliers and technology providers. Half of the surveyed drivers believe that the vehicle manufacturer should bear primary or shared responsibility for cybersecurity issues, even if the problem originates from a third-party component. This expectation signals a critical warning for automakers, as 70% of drivers express concerns about the security of their vehicles. The gap between rising consumer anxiety and the slower response from the automotive industry underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in connected vehicles.