Outlook Business Desk
Hackers are increasingly targeting Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) sector due to growing internet-based features. A report by Singapore’s Ensign Infosecurity, cited by the South China Morning Post, warns that in-car screens and phone connections make EVs easy targets for cyberattacks, raising serious concerns about data safety in the growing auto sector.
Since 2018, Malaysia has attracted over RM 26 billion (₹6,150 crore) in EV investments from Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. But as digital systems grow more complex, the risk of data breaches has surged, pushing cybersecurity to the forefront for automakers and policymakers alike.
Asia-Pacific’s cybercrime is evolving fast, with organised crime groups and even state actors teaming up with hackers. Malaysia’s (EV) sector, increasingly dependent on digital systems, risks becoming a soft target. This growing threat spans both local and global levels, making cybersecurity a critical priority for the industry.
In December 2024, a major data leak at Volkswagen’s software unit Cariad exposed details of 800,000 EV users. Caused by unsecured Amazon cloud storage, the breach revealed emails, IDs, and usage data—highlighting how even top EV brands face serious cybersecurity risks.
The Nissan Leaf, a popular electric car, was once hacked using a simple trick through its mobile app. At a US event, researchers also remotely shut down EV chargers. These incidents show that not just the car, but the entire digitally connected infrastructure around it is at risk.
Electric vehicles are like computers on wheels, replete with sensors, GPS, and internet systems. They collect personal data that's stored in the car and the cloud. If not secured properly, hackers can misuse it to track, steal, or control the vehicle.
Cybercriminals can also hack EV charging stations or fool users with fake QR codes to steal data. Public and home chargers connected to the internet can also be remotely controlled. In February 2025, Israeli firm Upstream warned that charger security is now as important as vehicle security.
Carmakers now release regular software updates, run cybersecurity audits, and reward ethical hackers for finding flaws in these systems. Charging firms are improving system protocols. While awareness is rising, experts say consistent efforts across the EV ecosystem are still lacking.
EVs are safer in many ways, but their connected nature exposes them to new risks. Like any smart device, they need protection. As EVs go mainstream, safeguarding user data and chargers will matter as much as battery range or driving performance.