Cybersecurity Challenges and Defense Strategies in Connected and Autonomous Vehicles
Author(s): Veera Venkata Krishnarjun Rao Adabala
Publication #: 2507021
Date of Publication: 27.07.2025
Country: United States
Pages: 1-8
Published In: Volume 11 Issue 4 July-2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16500666
Abstract
As Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) become more prevalent, they bring with them a host of cybersecurity challenges from their reliance on complex electronics, embedded systems, and integrated communication networks. The increased interconnectivity between critical vehicle systems such as braking, steering, infotainment, and telematics introduces multiple entry points for potential cyber threats. This paper investigates these vulnerabilities, with a focus on Electronic Control Units (ECUs) and in-vehicle networks including Controller Area Network (CAN), FlexRay, and Automotive Ethernet. Traditional in-vehicle communication protocols were not originally developed with security as a priority, leaving them exposed to risks such as spoofing, message injection, denial-of-service attacks, and unauthorized control. As vehicles adopt Ethernet-based architectures to meet growing data demands, new risks emerge due to the broader system complexity and deeper integration with external networks like cloud platforms and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) interfaces. The paper analyzes plausible attack scenarios, such as remote access through infotainment systems, direct physical exploitation via diagnostic ports, tampering with over-the-air (OTA) updates, and threats to artificial intelligence systems used in autonomous functions. The study further evaluates existing and emerging defense mechanisms, such as cryptographic protocols, secure ECU communication, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS), secure boot loaders, and hardware security components. Emphasis is placed on real-time detection techniques, including AI-enhanced anomaly detection models that recognize deviations from standard vehicle behavior patterns. Additionally, the paper explores cutting-edge developments like blockchain-based firmware distribution, next-generation cryptographic solutions resistant to quantum threats, and virtual simulation tools used for cybersecurity validation. Regulatory and industry frameworks such as ISO/SAE 21434 and UNECE WP.29 are also discussed to provide insight into evolving compliance expectations. By presenting an overview of the threats and mitigation strategies, this paper provides more resilient automotive ecosystems as the industry continues its transformation toward fully connected, software-defined vehicles.
Keywords: Cybersecurity, Autonomous Vehicles, ECUs, CAN Bus, Automotive Ethernet, Intrusion Detection, Connected Vehicles, Over the Air (OTA), Vehicle to everything (V2X), Flexray, WiFi vehicle-to-grid(V2G), Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), Hardware Security Modules (HSM), Gateway Security, Cryptography, Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs), Message Authentication Code (MAC).
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