Virginia's Patrol Cruiser Hacking Study Ahead of The Curve

Fiat Chrysler is recalling approximately 1.4 million cars and trucks across the country after two hackers revealed they took control of a Jeep Cherokee SUV over the Internet, according to a USA Today report.

The auto company said it would like to update software in the vehicles’ information systems to prevent future hacks.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) said it has also opened an investigation to determine whether the recall will be effective, USA Today reported. The Chrysler hacks are an unprecedented case in the auto industry.

In May, Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced the Commonwealth was launching a public-private working group to test state trooper cruisers to determine what ways they might be vulnerable to cyberattacks.

The team is composed of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology division, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Volpe Transportation Systems Center, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the University of Virginia, Mitre Corp., Mission Secure Inc., Spectrum Comm, Kaprica Security, Digital Bond Labs and OpenGarages.

The team is also hoping to find a low-cost way authorities can use to determine if a vehicle was the victim of a cyberattack when an accident or other incident occurs.

The study of trooper cruisers is focusing on two VSP vehicle models: a 2013 Ford Taurus and a 2012 Chevrolet Impala.

“High-tech systems now used in most automobiles are opening up potential new avenues for cyber attacks,” Gov. McAuliffe told InformationWeek. “Thanks to the continuing efforts of the Virginia Cyber Security Commission and Virginia Cyber Security Partnership, we have the opportunity to lead the nation in the establishment of safeguards protecting the vehicles of Virginia’s 5.8 million licensed drivers.”