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Evolving digital safeguards in automotive security, spanning from pre-eminent car theft techniques like hotwiring to modern hacking methods.

Advancements in automobile protection have surpassed simple steering wheel locks. Modern vehicles now benefit from features like immobilizers, facial recognition systems, and external cameras, all aimed at deterring car theft.

Evolving security technologies guarding the increasingly hackable modern vehicles, from hotwiring...
Evolving security technologies guarding the increasingly hackable modern vehicles, from hotwiring to digital breaches

Evolving digital safeguards in automotive security, spanning from pre-eminent car theft techniques like hotwiring to modern hacking methods.

In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, car manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to enhance security and convenience for their customers. Here's a glimpse into some of the latest developments in this area.

Car manufacturers like BMW and Audi are now capable of pinging their owners via their smartphones in real time. This feature, while offering peace of mind, also serves as a deterrent to potential thieves.

Hyundai, on the other hand, is planning to take security to the next level. The South Korean automaker plans to use fingerprint recognition to start future models, but only when paired with facial recognition technology to gain access to the vehicle. This biometric authentication method, already common in modern vehicles, allows drivers to unlock and start the car using their unique biometric data. The technology often works through sensors integrated in the car or via smartphone apps that authenticate the user by recognizing their fingerprint or face.

Tesla was the pioneer in using a smartphone as a key, with the car recognizing a phone equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology when it's nearby, allowing the doors to be unlocked and the vehicle driven. Some cars also use smartphone technology to open the car from a distance.

Tesla's commitment to security is evident in its Sentry Mode, a software feature that monitors the vehicle and alerts the owner if it is being tampered with. The company also uses some of its cameras to monitor the vehicle, even when it's off, and Sentry Mode can record attempted break-ins.

Other manufacturers like BMW and Audi allow remote monitoring of the car, allowing owners to check the vehicle's interior and perimeter from their smartphones. This feature, combined with real-time pinging, provides an added layer of security.

The Australian government mandated in 2001 that all new cars had to be fitted with engine immobilisers, making stealing newer cars much tougher. Today, modern cars have sophisticated security systems that include features such as immobilisers, facial-recognition, and external cameras.

However, car theft hasn't been completely eradicated. Recent stories suggest that thieves may remotely scan proximity keys from across the street to program their own key. But data and reports from authorities don't indicate widespread use of this method.

It's important to remember that while technological advancements offer significant benefits, they also pose new challenges. Following security tips at home and on the road, and ensuring you have motor insurance in place, are important steps to protect your car from theft.

As we move forward, it's clear that car security will continue to evolve, with manufacturers continually seeking to stay one step ahead of potential thieves. The Genesis GV60 electric SUV, for example, is expected to be available in Australia soon, featuring a facial recognition system that uses infrared technology to recognize faces in the dark. This system, called Face Connect, is teamed with fingerprint recognition inside the car.

Security expert Sanders asserts that modern keys have a lot of encryption and rolling codes, making cyber theft much more difficult. However, the increasing reliance on software makes it the focus for many car makers trying to dissuade thieves.

In conclusion, the future of car security looks promising, with manufacturers continually innovating to provide safer and more convenient driving experiences for their customers.

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