Data Security Risks of Chinese-Made Connected Vehicles

The Biden administration has launched an investigation into potential data security and cyberespionage risks posed by Chinese-made connected vehicles. This scrutiny of advanced automotive technology echoes concerns raised about Chinese telecom manufacturers and reflects growing unease over China’s expanding influence in critical infrastructure worldwide. While details remain uncertain, the probe could lead to significant regulatory, trade and competitive impacts across the auto industry.

Background of Investigation

The investigation aims to assess and address national security dangers associated with increasingly “smart” vehicles manufactured in China. It is driven by worries that China could exploit data and remote access to vehicles for surveillance and disruptive cyberattacks.

Specifically, officials cite two core concerns:

Data Privacy: Connected vehicles contain a trove of sensitive driver information — location, biometrics, habits etc. — that could flow back to China and the Chinese government. There are fears this data could be used for pervasive monitoring of American motorists.

Remote Control: Connected vehicles’ reliance on software updates creates a vector for potential remote hijacking, disabling or malicious…