Cars, Hackers & Cyber Security

PlaxidityX

As cars become smarter and more connected, the demand for top-tier automotive cyber security has never been higher. With expert insights from PlaxidityX, a leading automotive cyber security company, we’ll guide you through the challenges and solutions protecting millions of vehicles worldwide. Whether you’re an industry expert or just curious about how cars are secured in the digital age, this podcast comprehensively looks at how cyber defenses are developed, tested, and deployed. We don’t just talk about the technology; we talk about what it means for you—the driver, the manufacturer, the tech enthusiast. We explore how automotive cyber security solutions are applied in real-world scenarios to safeguard everything from onboard infotainment systems to critical vehicle control units. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how manufacturers are staying one step ahead of hackers and ensuring a more secure, connected world.

  1. 07/03/2025

    Auto Tech at a Crossroads: Navigating the U.S. Ban on Foreign Vehicle Systems – PlaxidityX Ep 24

    As today’s vehicles evolve into software-defined data hubs, concerns over national security have extended deep into automotive supply chains. In this episode of Cars, Hackers, and Cyber Security, we unpack the U.S. government’s sweeping new ban on connected vehicle systems originating from China and Russia-and what it means for automakers, suppliers, and consumers worldwide. Drawing from The Auto Tech War: U.S. Ban on China and Russia Leaves Industry Scrambling by Durga Adusumilli, we explore the motivations behind the policy, the massive compliance challenges it imposes, and how the global auto industry is reacting. From surveillance risks and remote vehicle hijacking to complex software supply chains and legal ambiguity, we break down the intersection of geopolitics, cybersecurity, and automotive innovation. Discover what makes firmware and open-source software exempt, why declarations of conformity are becoming mandatory, and how companies like PlaxidityX are stepping up with cutting-edge solutions to navigate the complexity. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome & Episode Overview 01:15 Why the U.S. Government Is Cracking Down 03:40 The Scope of the Ban: VCS & ADS Systems 06:05 Supply Chain Challenges & Compliance Chaos 09:30 Exceptions, Loopholes & Ownership Dilemmas 13:00 Due Diligence, SBOMs & IP Protection 17:45 Timeline Pressures & Industry Reactions 20:00 How Technology Is Enabling Compliance 23:05 Implications Beyond the Automotive Sector 26:30 Final Takeaways & Call to Action Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/ https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityX https://plaxidityx.com/company/contact/

    15 min
  2. 06/19/2025

    Navigating Automotive Software Security and Regulation- PlaxidityX Ep 23

    As automotive software grows increasingly complex, navigating security and regulatory requirements has become an essential challenge for manufacturers. Today's vehicles, driven by software-defined systems and connected services, must comply with stringent standards while defending against evolving cyber threats. In this episode, we delve deeply into the critical intersection of automotive software security and industry regulations. We explore how automakers and Tier 1 suppliers can manage complex regulatory landscapes like UN Regulation 155 (R155) and ISO 21434, which mandate cybersecurity throughout the vehicle lifecycle-from design through production and post-production. The integration of numerous software stacks within a single vehicle opens avenues for vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit, highlighting the need for rigorous compliance and robust cybersecurity practices. Join us to discover essential insights into adopting secure software development frameworks, implementing rigorous Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment (TARA) processes, and maintaining compliance in a rapidly shifting regulatory environment. Learn how cutting-edge practices such as continuous vulnerability monitoring and Vehicle Security Operations Centers (VSOCs) are becoming standard to protect vehicles against emerging threats. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Automotive Software Security 00:18 The Evolving Automotive Software Landscape 01:12 Key Regulatory Standards: UN R155 and ISO 21434 03:45 Challenges in Automotive Software Compliance 06:23 Vulnerabilities in Modern Vehicle Software Systems 09:05 Practical Strategies for Compliance and Security 16:40 Implementing Continuous Monitoring and VSOCs 20:15 Future Directions in Automotive Regulation and Security 21:30 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/  https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityX  https://plaxidityx.com/company/contact/

    19 min
  3. 05/27/2025

    Automotive HPC Security Challenges and Solutions - Ep 22

    With next-generation vehicles rapidly transforming into software-defined platforms powered by High-Performance Computers (HPCs), the approach to automotive security is fundamentally changing. These powerful central processors are critical for everything from infotainment to autonomous driving, but their consolidation also creates a significant single point of failure and a vastly expanded attack surface. In this briefing, we unpack the unique cybersecurity challenges presented by automotive HPCs. We'll explore how these systems manage mixed-criticality functions, the inherent risks of integrating diverse software on a single SoC, and the evolving threat landscape that includes everything from connectivity exploits to supply chain vulnerabilities. Imagine an attacker escalating privileges from a non-critical app to seize control of safety systems – the stakes couldn't be higher. Join us to understand the essential defense-in-depth strategies for securing these complex automotive brains, from implementing Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) and Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) to adopting rigorous Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment (TARA) methodologies and real-time VSOC monitoring. As regulations like UN R155 and standards such as ISO 21434 mandate robust cybersecurity, it’s no longer optional to embed security from the design phase onwards. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Automotive Cybersecurity00:15 Evolution of Car Electronics00:33 The Shift to Centralized High-Performance Computers (HPCs)01:31 Challenges of Centralized Computing in Cars03:26 Understanding Automotive HPCs05:12 Security Risks in Modern Vehicles09:57 Strategies for Securing Automotive HPCs20:19 Future Trends in Automotive Cybersecurity21:18 Conclusion and Further Resources Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityXcontact@plaxidityx.com

    22 min
  4. 04/21/2025

    Inside the Truck Cyber Threat – PlaxidityX Ep 21

    With cyber attacks on trucks becoming more common and costly, fleet operators and OEMs must rethink how they protect their vehicle security and data privacy. Trucks are no longer isolated units, they're part of a larger, interconnected automotive ecosystem vulnerable to disruption. In this episode, we unpack the threats, explore real-world hacking scenarios, and dive into actionable cybersecurity strategies for truck manufacturers. The financial and operational stakes are sky-high, especially when trucks are transporting valuable or perishable cargo. We break down the dangers of a hacked ELD, the threats to critical systems like braking, and the growing risks of data theft.  Join us to discover how truck manufacturers can implement a security-by-design approach, from early TARA assessments to real-time VSOC monitoring. It's time to stop treating automotive cybersecurity as an afterthought in the transportation industry. Chapters:(00:00) - Intro: Welcome to Cars, Hackers & Cybersecurity (00:13) - Truck Cybersecurity: Combating Threats on the Open Road(01:23) - Cyber attacks on trucks carry a hefty price tag(02:40) - Broader attack surface than connected cars(03:27) - The Dangers of a Truck Hack(04:53) - Hacking a Truck’s Electronic Logging Device (ELD)(05:30) - Cybersecurity Steps Commercial Truck Manufacturers Should Consider (06:21) - Implement security by design(07:02) - Embed in-vehicle IDPS protection(07:44) - Perform penetration tests to find and address weaknesses(08:15) - Scan for vulnerabilities  (08:50) - Set up a VSOC to monitor and protect the entire fleet (09:25) - Outro: See You Next Time on Cars, Hackers & Cybersecurity  Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityXcontact@plaxidityx.com

    10 min
  5. 04/08/2025

    Digital Car Theft: How Hackers Steal in Seconds – PlaxidityX Ep 20

    In this episode, we explore the shift from traditional theft to a new era of digital car theft. Instead of smashing windows, today’s criminals launch automotive cyber-attacks that bypass immobilizers, unlock doors, and hijack control systems, all without leaving a trace. From CAN bus vulnerabilities to cloned key fobs, cybercriminals are finding new attack vectors faster than manufacturers can plug the gaps. As a result, theft rates are soaring and entire automotive cyber security ecosystems—from fleets to insurers—are feeling the financial and operational pain. We’ll discuss what’s being done to fight back, including the critical role of aftermarket AI-powered protection. Learn why OEMs are struggling, why the insurance market is shifting, and why AI-powered anti-theft protection solutions like vDome by PlaxidityX essential for any modern vehicle on the road today. This isn’t just car cyber-attack prevention—it’s a whole new era of proactive vehicle protection. Chapters(00:00) - Intro: Welcome to Cars, Hackers & Cybersecurity  (00:12) - Real-World Example: Your Car is Gone  (01:00) - Car Theft Overview: From Hotwiring to Hacking  (01:55) - Car Theft Has Reached Epidemic Levels(02:25) - Wreaking Havoc with the Entire Automotive Ecosystem(03:52) - Cyber-Enabled Car Theft Techniques (05:45) - How to Address the Car Theft Problem(07:21) - How To Protect Vehicles Already on the Road: The Need for Aftermarket Protection(08:55) - How Plaxidity X (formally Argus) Can Help(09:37) - Outro: Stay Safe on the Road and in the Cloud Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityXcontact@plaxidityx.com

    10 min
  6. 03/09/2025

    Dynamic SBOM for Smarter Vehicle Security – PlaxidityX Ep 19

    In this episode, we discuss the groundbreaking concept of Dynamic SBOM and its role in modern automotive software security. Hear how real-time monitoring of third-party library usage can lead to more precise vulnerability management. We explain the process behind intercepting dynamic calls and replacing them with breakpoints for live analysis. Discover how the technology replaces traditional code analysis methods to offer a live, actionable vehicle security view. We break down the technical aspects of Dynamic SBOM, discussing how it works by intercepting dynamic library calls using breakpoints. Understand the difference between repetitive call logging in ltrace and the efficient, one-time capture in Dynamic SBOM. This precision leads to more effective vulnerability prioritization. Our discussion also covers the integration of Dynamic SBOM with static analysis techniques, enhancing overall security. We highlight key considerations and best practices for maximizing monitoring coverage. Listen now to learn how to revolutionize your software security with these innovative insights. Chapters:(00:00) Welcome to Cars, Hackers and Cybersecurity(00:00:12) Dynamic SBOM Overview(00:00:21) What Is SBOM & Its Importance(00:00:48) Static vs. Dynamic SBOM Comparison(00:01:13) Benefits of Real-Time Monitoring(00:02:24) How Dynamic SBOM Works(00:02:46) Key Considerations & Dynamic SBOM vs. ltrace(00:03:33) DSBOM Complementing Static Analysis(00:04:24) Coverage, Testing & Effectiveness(00:05:16) Interpreting Library Usage & Vulnerability Mitigation(00:06:09) Conclusion: Dynamic SBOM in Action(00:07:16) Episode Wrap-Up & Sign Off Contact us:https://www.linkedin.com/company/plaxidityx/https://www.youtube.com/@PlaxidityXcontact@plaxidityx.com

    8 min

About

As cars become smarter and more connected, the demand for top-tier automotive cyber security has never been higher. With expert insights from PlaxidityX, a leading automotive cyber security company, we’ll guide you through the challenges and solutions protecting millions of vehicles worldwide. Whether you’re an industry expert or just curious about how cars are secured in the digital age, this podcast comprehensively looks at how cyber defenses are developed, tested, and deployed. We don’t just talk about the technology; we talk about what it means for you—the driver, the manufacturer, the tech enthusiast. We explore how automotive cyber security solutions are applied in real-world scenarios to safeguard everything from onboard infotainment systems to critical vehicle control units. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how manufacturers are staying one step ahead of hackers and ensuring a more secure, connected world.