Verfassungsschutz warns of espionage risks in connected cars

The German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (Verfassungsschutz) has issued a warning regarding espionage risks associated with connected vehicles. The agency noted that individuals in high-level state, political, or economic positions are particularly vulnerable due to their access to sensitive information.

Potential threats include the interception of driving data, telemetry, and interior recordings via a vehicle's internet connection. The agency warned that attackers could potentially gain control over a vehicle, remotely activate microphones, or use precise location data to create movement profiles, such as tracking visits to ministries or military installations. Furthermore, pairing smartphones with vehicles can lead to the storage of sensitive contact information.

The Verfassungsschutz highlighted increased risks from nations that legally mandate corporate cooperation with intelligence services, specifically citing China and its 2017 National Intelligence Law.