Chinese hybrid ute left exposed to remote hacking, cybersecurity test finds
A cybersecurity expert found a BYD Shark 6 lacked password protection for basic systems but had well-protected brakes and cameras.
Cybersecurity expert Dan Hreszczuk tested a BYD Shark 6 and was shocked by what he found. The vehicle had no password protecting software access.
Once inside, he could remotely lock the doors, turn headlights and wipers on and off, blast the stereo, and spray the windscreen. Dan could not access the brakes or cameras, which were well protected.
The real concern is data. BYD software is controlled from China, and Chinese EV and hybrid makers can be compelled by their government to hand over data.
Chinese vehicles now make up more than half of Australia's electric vehicle sales. EVs and hybrids totalled almost a third of all new cars sold this year.
- BYD Shark 6 hybrid ute
- Vehicle tested
- More than half of Australia's EV sales
- Chinese EV market share
- Almost a third of new car sales
- EVs and hybrids share
- 2.6 tonnes
- Vehicle weight
Why it mattersChinese-made electric vehicles collect vast amounts of data through cameras and microphones. If their manufacturers are compelled to share this data with their government, it poses a risk to Australian drivers.
AustraliaThe BYD Shark is beloved by Australian tradies and officials. Chinese EVs now dominate Australian new car sales, yet this hack shows basic security is missing.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 4 d ago
