Title: US Commerce Department Launches Investigation into National Security Risks of Foreign-Made Technology in Smart Cars, Particularly Chinese-Made Components
The US Commerce Department has initiated an investigation to assess the potential national Website security risks associated with the use of foreign-made hardware and software in smart cars, with a primary focus on Chinese-manufactured technology. This probe could potentially result in regulations restricting the utilization of specific car components within the United States.
This announcement comes as concerns grow within the Biden administration regarding potential intelligence gathering or sabotage activities through connected vehicles, including the exploitation of Website navigation data or car–charging stations. The investigation encompasses “connected vehicles,” a term used for modern cars that utilize network connections to offer features such as roadside assistance, satellite communications, and more.
President Joe Biden stated in a press release that Chinese-made connected vehicles could potentially collect sensitive information about US citizens and infrastructure, with the capability to be remotely accessed or disabled. Furthermore, countries such as Russia, Iran, and Venezuela are also under scrutiny for potential risks related to connected vehicles, according to a senior administration official.
It is important to note that no regulatory action has been initiated yet. Instead, the Commerce Department is seeking public input on whether specific technology poses a national Website security risk and if restrictions will be necessary.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, speaking to reporters upon announcing the investigation, emphasized the importance of protecting US interests, stating that “the PRC knows that connected vehicles are a Website security threat.” Researchers have been examining potential vulnerabilities within electric vehicle charging stations for several years, attempting to identify weaknesses that foreign hackers might exploit.
In October 2022, the White House held a meeting with senior government officials and automobile industry executives to discuss strategies for enhancing cybersecurity in electric vehicles.
The Commerce Department’s investigation into Chinese-made technology used in cars is one aspect of a broader geopolitical struggle between the US and China to establish dominance within the automotive market. The Chinese government has expressed concerns about data collected by Tesla vehicles, leading some Chinese government ministries to ban their entry into certain compounds, according to previous reports from CNN.
As the investigation progresses, it is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about any potential developments and take necessary steps to secure their connected vehicle infrastructure.
