Connected cars have ushered in unprecedented levels of convenience, making everyday tasks remarkably simple. Most importantly, modern vehicles can now be accessed through smartphone apps and web browsers, allowing owners to start, stop, or even unlock their cars remotely. However, this rapid digital transformation brings critical cybersecurity risks that cannot be ignored. Because of these risks, a recent incident demonstrated how vulnerabilities in a major carmaker’s web portal allowed an attacker to remotely unlock vehicles from anywhere in the world.
This incident serves as a stark wake-up call to not only automakers but also technology providers across the connected automotive industry. As noted by TechCrunch, the seamless integration of digital access and vehicle controls has opened new avenues for potential cyber attacks. Therefore, organizations must prioritize rigor in securing their systems, making cybersecurity a foundational element rather than an afterthought.
How Did the Security Flaw Happen?
Earlier this year, security experts uncovered vulnerabilities in the web portal of a well-known automaker. Because the system lacked adequate safeguards and proper access controls, it became possible for a malicious actor to create an admin account with near-unrestricted privileges. Most importantly, this account could view sensitive customer data, track vehicles in real time, and alter connected features like door locks without needing physical access to the vehicle.
Security researchers described that the attacker exploited weaknesses in the API endpoints and dealer-level access permissions. Most notably, the streamlined oversight of these controls allowed the attacker to manipulate the system by bypassing conventional authentication. Besides that, similar vulnerabilities were observed in another well-documented incident involving Subaru vehicles, as reported by TechCrunch. Because of these findings, auto manufacturers are now reassessing how these digital gateways are designed and secured.
What Data and Functions Were at Risk?
This breach exposed highly sensitive data including personal identifiers, such as names, emails, home addresses, and financial details. Most importantly, the compromise went beyond personal information. Attackers were also able to track a vehicle’s location in real time, and even unlock and start the engine remotely. Because of these actions, owners faced significant risks related to theft and privacy invasion.
Moreover, a major concern was the potential for misuse of the compromised data, leading to severe privacy violations and even physical danger in extreme cases. In addition, regulatory bodies like CISA have issued bulletins urging manufacturers to upgrade and fortify the security of their digital interfaces. Therefore, stringent data protection measures are essential in today’s connected automotive ecosystem.
Broader Implications for the Auto Industry
The implications of these cyber vulnerabilities span the entire automotive industry. Most notably, similar security issues have been uncovered in the digital platforms of numerous manufacturers such as Kia, Hyundai, Honda, and Toyota. Because these vulnerabilities persist, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive review of security protocols.
Researchers and industry experts have repeatedly highlighted deficiencies in access control and weak API endpoints. For example, Security Journey recently documented a similar flaw in Kia’s web portal, which serves as a wake-up call for API security across the sector. Besides that, the automotive industry must embrace a defense-in-depth strategy, ensuring that every layer of connectivity is scrutinized to reduce risk.
Lessons in Web and API Security
Modern vehicles rely heavily on software and internet connectivity. Because of this reliance, every improvement in digital convenience also increases the attack surface available to cybercriminals. Most importantly, the incidents described above underline several key lessons:
- Access Control is Critical: It is imperative that web portals and APIs enforce rigorous user authentication and role-based restrictions.
- API Endpoints Need Hardening: Services that transmit commands to vehicles must incorporate strict validation, rate-limiting, and error-handling procedures.
- Data Privacy Must be Prioritized: Exposure of real-time location data and personal details can directly endanger users by facilitating stalking or theft.
- Dealer Portals Require Special Protection: Given their broader control interfaces, these portals are especially attractive targets for hackers, making additional security layers essential.
Because these incidents serve as a red flag for potential larger-scale breaches, automotive and tech industries must collaborate to develop more robust security mechanisms. In addition, ongoing monitoring and independent audits can help preempt threats before they result in major breaches.
What Can Car Owners and Automakers Do Now?
For automakers, it is vital to undertake comprehensive security audits and reinforce web portal and API defenses. Because vulnerabilities can rapidly be exploited, manufacturers should adopt a proactive stance by patching flaws as soon as they are discovered. Most importantly, integrated defense-in-depth strategies are essential, ensuring that multiple security layers protect each component of the connected system.
Car owners also have a critical role in this ecosystem. Because manufacturers are continuously updating their systems, users should enable two-factor authentication, closely monitor manufacturer communications for security updates, and only share access with trusted contacts. Additionally, staying informed through reliable sources, such as the detailed reports available on TechCrunch and Security Journey, can help users understand the risks and the best practices needed to safeguard their vehicles.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Connected Car Security
The rapid digitization of the auto industry presents tremendous opportunities, but also significant risks. Because of these growing challenges, automakers must embed security into the very DNA of their connected systems. Most importantly, a shift to secure-by-design principles is required, ensuring that cybersecurity is integrated at every stage of product development.
In addition, the future of connected car security will rely on prompt vulnerability disclosure and robust cross-industry collaboration. Therefore, technological advancements must be paired with equally advanced security protocols to mitigate risks. As highlighted by the National Vulnerability Database entry CVE-2025-6030, staying informed about emerging threats and coordinating with regulatory bodies are crucial steps towards maintaining a secure vehicular environment.
References
- TechCrunch: Security flaws in a carmaker’s web portal let one hacker remotely unlock cars from anywhere
- Security Journey: Kia’s Web Portal Vulnerability: A Wake-Up Call for API Security
- CISA Bulletin: Vulnerability Summary for Connected Automotive Systems
- TechCrunch: Hackers found a way to remotely unlock, start, and track millions of Subarus
- National Vulnerability Database: CVE-2025-6030
