Hackers break into Subaru Outback via text message

By Christopher Trout posted Aug 4th 2011 5:17PM

We've already seen SCADA systems controlled by Google Search, and now the Black Hat Technical Security Conference is offering up yet another slice of cringe-inducing hacker pie. A pair of pros from iSec Partners security firm was able to unlock and start the engine of a Subaru Outback using an Android phone and a process they call war texting. By setting up their own GSM network, they were able to snatch up password authentication messages being sent from server to car, allowing them the option to ride off in a brand new crossover. Apparently, your car isn't the only thing in danger of a war-texting takeover, however, as the team says there are a slew of devices and systems, accessible over telephone networks, that are vulnerable to similar attacks, including A-GPS tracking devices, 3G security cameras, SCADA sensors -- and thus the power grid and water supply -- home automation, and urban traffic control systems. Somehow this group of otherwise innocent looking New York texters appears a whole lot more sinister now.

Source (via www.autoblog.com);
http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/hackers-break-into-subaru-outback-via-text-message/

Boomerang Promotes Auto Theft Awareness through Site

Well, here's a company that has taken the initiative to help combat auto theft with a vehicle tracking device. Even with an immobilizer a vehicle can still be stolen, a sophisticated thief will use a tow truck or a flat bed to steal what they want and take the car to their 'hide out' to have their way with the car.

Boomerang Tracking has published a guide to protect vehicles from theft called Keeping Track Booklet, available at www.boomerangtracking.com. The guide includes a myths and realities quiz, a review of auto theft in Canada and the four methods of prevention against car theft. Boomerang Tracking has also launched a YouTube channel to better educate drivers. The “Auto Theft Prevention 101” is viewable at http://www.youtube.com/boomerangtracking. For more information and statistics, you can find the release on MarketWire.


"It's a small transmitter installed in your car. When you report your car stolen, the Boomerang tracking station can find the transmitter's signal in less than an hour, sometimes in a matter of minutes.

The enhanced Boomerang 2 doesn't even need you to report the theft - it automatically connects with the tracking station if the car is moved without being started, or if the battery is disconnected. " - Canadian Driver.com, the link to the full article ;
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/pw/boomerang.htm

Here is the link to Boomerang's "Keeping Track Booklet";
http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/Booklet_ENG.pdf