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Dashcams are widely used to record driving footage as evidence in the event of an accident or a road dispute, but they can also pose a serious privacy risk if attackers exploit security vulnerabilities.
A team of cybersecurity experts from Singapore has warned that several seemingly harmless dashcam models could be hijacked within seconds. This could effectively turn them into powerful surveillance devices.
Security vulnerabilities found in dashcams
● Wi-Fi
Most dashcams do not use a SIM card or a mobile network connection. However, many models have built-in Wi-Fi so owners can connect to a smartphone app. This type of connection can become a security weakness.
Hackers may use it to access stored data, including high-resolution video, audio recordings, and precise GPS location information.
● Passwords
Security researchers, including Kaspersky, have found that many dashcams use fixed default passwords. In other words, they rely on hardcoded default passwords. This makes them vulnerable to large-scale attacks.
In addition, many models share similar hardware designs and system architecture. As a result, a single exploit or attack method can work across multiple models and brands.
How hackers might hack your dashcam
Researchers have identified several possible attack methods, such as:
1. Direct file access: Hackers can download videos or log files without needing to verify a password.
In some cases, the dashcam’s web server may check authentication only when the connection is first established, but not for every request.
2. MAC spoofing: Hackers can capture the owner’s smartphone MAC address and then spoof it to connect to the dashcam as if they were the owner’s device.
3. Replay attack: Hackers can record a legitimate Wi-Fi exchange and replay it later to trick the dashcam into accepting it as a valid connection.
Even more concerning, researchers were able to develop code that runs directly on the dashcam itself, similar to a “worm.”
A compromised dashcam could then automatically attempt to attack nearby vehicles’ dashcams. For example, during traffic jams or when cars are moving at similar speeds in major cities.
As a result, dashcam attacks may not be limited to hacking devices one by one. They could potentially spread on a large scale. Researchers estimate that a single exploit package could compromise up to around 25% of all dashcams in a large urban environment.
Data that could be stolen
If an attacker successfully hacks a dashcam, they may be able to access the following:
- High-resolution video footage recorded by the camera.
- Recorded audio (if the device has a microphone).
- GPS data that can track your travel route, where you go, and the times you travel.
- Images of passengers, road signs, and even a “trip summary” generated by combining video, location data, and AI-based automatic transcription to infer where you went, what you did, and who you were with.
In other words, a device installed for safety could unknowingly become a serious threat to your privacy.
Dashcam Security Tips: What to Do If You Use a Dashcam
Using a dashcam can improve safety on the road, but connected features like Wi-Fi can also create security risks. Cybersecurity researchers recommend these dashcam security best practices to help protect your device, your data, and your privacy:
✔ Secure access: Replace the factory password immediately after installation, and use a strong, unique password.
✔ Minimize exposure: Disable the dashcam’s Wi-Fi when you’re not using it, and avoid leaving it enabled all the time.
✔ Maintain protection: Keep your dashcam firmware up to date, especially when the manufacturer releases security patches.
✔ Choose a safer model: When buying a new device, look for a dashcam with stronger security standards and a manufacturer that prioritizes security by design
Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and help keep your dashcam footage and personal information secure.
Summary
Dashcams, which many people trust to improve safety, can become a hidden threat to your privacy if used without proper precautions.
This is because security flaws in many models may allow hackers to access your video footage, audio recordings, and GPS location data with relative ease.
The key to using a dashcam safely is to configure security settings correctly and use the device responsibly. This helps reduce the risk of being monitored or having your personal data stolen.
Source:
Read more: ByteToBreach: The Hacker Who Runs Cybercrime as a Business
