IoV Under Attack : How Hackers could Hijack the future of Transportation

By: Vanna karthik; Vel Tech University, Chennai, India

Abstract :

Through the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) technology transportation companies now achieve simplified communication between cars and both physical networks and end users. Internet of Vehicles systems that connect more deeply with our everyday lifestyle have turned into prime potential for cyberattacks. This paper examines how IoV faces security risks along with potential attack outcomes and requires protective measures to ensure transportation security. The immediate action of manufacturers and policy makers and cybersecurity specialists becomes essential to address existing data exposure hazards and remote hijacking threats in the transportation sector.

Introduction :

Smart transportation, the Internet of Vehicles(IoV) is the next step. The IoV promises to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion and improve driving experience by connecting cars to the cloud infrastructure. However, significant cybersecurity concerns are also introduced by this network ecosystem. Vehicles are an increasingly easy target for hackers as their reliance on software and connection increases[1]. Their flaws might be used by hackers to remotely take over cars, steal data, or even interfere with traffic. The possible risks to IoV are examined in this article along with the necessary countermeasures.

The Vulnerabilities of IoV:

IoV systems are dependent on a sophisticated sensor network, cloud-based services, and communication protocols. Advance features like autonomous driving and real time traffic updates are made possible by these technologies but they also provide multiple points of entry for attackers. Among the most significant weaknesses are the following:

Weak Encryption[2] : A lot of IoV systems employ outdated and ineffective encryption technology, which makes it simpler for hackers to intercept and modify data.

Insecure APIs: Application Programming interfaces that allow communication between automobiles and external systems are frequently not sufficiently protected, making them a prime target for hackers[3].

Absence of Authentication[2] : Unauthorized users can obtain access to certain IoV systems since they do not have strong authentication procedures in place.

Human Error : By downloading malicious software or connecting to an insecure network, drivers and users could accidentally make the IoV system at risk.

Potential Consequences of IoV Hacks

An issue occurring from Iov hacking will lead to disastrous outcomes. Several dangerous outcomes exist when analyzing IoV attacks.

Data Branches :Resistance to data breaches appears likely since hackers might successfully access users’ sensitive information that includes their location data, driving habits along with personal details[4]. The stolen data has the potential to reach the black market of the dark web or result in identification fraud.

Remote Vehicle Hijacking : Through Remote Vehicle Hijacking hackers acquire control of vehicle systems so they can manipulate steering functions alongside both acceleration and braking operations which endanger life[4].

Traffic disruption : The attackers could use IoV systems to produce traffic congestion through their exploitation or to force accidents or to interrupt emergency service operations.

Ransomware Attack[5] : Hacker lock driver outside their car or disable critical system until a ransomware is paid.

Vulnerability	Potential impact	Counter measure
Weak encryption	Data interception and manipulation	Implement strong encryption protocol
Lack of standardization	Inconsistent security access	Develop industry wide cybersecurity standards for IoV
Lack of Authentication	Unauthorized control to vehicle function	Use multifactor authentication for all system interaction
Over the Air update	Malware injection through update	Verify all OTA updates before instilled
Sensor spoofing	False data input leads to accident	Use anomaly detection system to identify and block spoofed signals
Human error	Exposure to phishing or malicious network	Educate users on cyber security

Table 1: IoV Vulnerabilities and Corresponding Countermeasures

Securing the Future of Transportation[6]

Multiple layers of cybersecurity defense are needed by IoV systems to defend against potential cyberattacks. These critical steps should be implemented for securing IoT systems in transportation:

Data security between vehicle-to-external-system communications becomes enhanced through implementing strong encryption protocols.

API development teams need to validate every API endpoint before deployment to stop unauthorized users from accessing system data.

Manufacturers should execute regular software updates which serve to resolve vulnerabilities and build better system security.

Users and drivers need education which will teach them about the security threats associated with unsecured networks and untrusted application downloads.

Governments together with manufacturers along with cybersecurity experts need to create industry-wide and best practices for IoV security through collaborative efforts.

A range of advanced monitoring systems operate as Intrusion Detection Systems to detect and respond automatically during real-time cyberattacks.

Conclusion

As a result of the Internet of Vehicles advances transportation toward safer operations with better efficiency and enhanced user experience. The forthcoming age of IoV becomes endangered when we neglect to resolve security problems arising from this technology. Security measures implemented before the deployment of IoV systems will produce the intended benefits while defending against safety and privacy risks. Action needs immediate attention because hackers pose a real threat to future transportation development.

References

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Cite As

Karthik V. (2025) IoV Under Attack : How Hackers could Hijack the future of Transportation, Insights2techinfo pp.1

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