Modern cars are more connected than ever. They can sync with your smartphone, unlock without a key, receive software updates over the air, and even park and drive themselves (with some limitations). But all that technology raises an unsettling question: could someone exploit your car’s digital systems to steal it, access your personal information, or interfere with the way it drives?
The answer is yes—researchers have demonstrated that certain vehicles can be vulnerable to cyberattacks. But that doesn’t mean hackers can take control of any car at the push of a button. The risks depend on the vehicle, its software, and the security measures in place. Here’s how car hacking works, what’s actually possible, and what drivers can do to protect themselves.
