Hackers in your cars computer: Fact or fiction?

Computers are everywhere. We deal with them constantly in our daily lives, whether they are a cash register, the local ATM or even gas pumps. Well, now with cars becoming more technologically advanced, a concern has come to light about whether computers in cars run a risk of being hacked.



"Mechanics have to be computer specialists instead of wrench turners," said Steve Jardine, vice president at Johnstons Toyota in New Hampton.

With all the lights on the dash going on, mechanics have to use expensive scanners that give them codes to tell them what is wrong with the car. The software to upgrade these scanners as years go by is equally expensive.

While many local dealerships have not heard of hackers getting into car computers, many said there's no reason why it couldn't happen. "We have no reported incidents," said Jeff Musumeci, general manager at RI Suresky & Sons Inc. in Goshen, "but what's to say that it's not down the road."

Hyundai and Chrysler are two makes that Suresky sells. Hyundai has Blue Link Technology and Chrysler has Uconnect, both integrating features that can be operated from your smartphone.





Reader Reaction