Stealing cars is getting easier

Stealing cars is getting easier

Today™s cars, loaded with digital engine technology and multi-function infotainment systems, are easier than ever to steal, according to security pros.

To prove the point, two researchers at the Black Hat Conference, an annual gathering of hackers and security pros in Las Vegas, last week used nothing but an Android smartphone and some creative programming to not only unlock a Subaru Outback but start up its engine.

Don Bailey, a senior security consultant with iSEC Partners and his partner used a technique called war texting to intercept the password used by the car they hijacked. That™s not supposed to be possible, according to auto industry officials who have tried to ease consumer

concerns that the increasing reliance on remote key fobs and other digital gizmos might pose a threat to safety and security.

OnStar and various stolen vehicle recovery systems and electronic immobilizers, have made it more and more difficult to steal the newest cars in recent years. Indeed, theft rates have steadily gone down.

The demonstration at the Black Hat Conference suggest, however, this may only be a temporary situation as tomorrow™s car thieves trade their key blanks and crowbars for keyboards and smartphones to gain access to the newest models that haven™t been properly programmed to prevent hackers from unlocking their doors or starting their engines.