RECALL ON DODGE's

[Rondo]

Just saw on the evening news that 2013-15 Dodge Rams with the in-dash navigation system have been recalled because they are vulnerable to "computer hackers" being able to take over control of the vehicles. It's not just the PU's but many many other Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products also. It is for those that have the 8"touch screens in the dash! The "hackers" can take over control of your car both steering and the ignition. Don't these "hackers" have anything better to do than put peoples lives in danger?!!?

[02pullin]

Earlier this week, we reported on a vulnerability in Chrysler's Uconnect system that allowed two hackers to remotely control a Jeep Cherokee. (They could've chosen any number of vehicles from a wide range of automakers, but determined that the Cherokee was best suited for their demonstration.)

To counter some of the coverage of that event, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles quickly published a blog post reiterating that "there has not been a single real world incident of an unlawful or unauthorized remote hack into any FCA vehicle". However, the company also said that it would contact owners whose vehicles were affected by the flaw and let them know about an important software upgrade available online or at their dealer.

Today, FCA stepped up its efforts to nip this problem in the bud. The company has issued an official recall for 1.4 million U.S. vehicles that may suffer from the security vulnerability. The list of makes and models includes:

2015 Chrysler 200
2015 Chrysler 300
2015 Dodge Challenger
2015 Dodge Charger
2014-2015 Dodge Durango
2013-2015 Dodge Viper
2014-2015 Jeep Cherokee
2014-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee
2013-2015 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups
2013-2015 Ram 3500, 4500, 5500 chassis cabs

The recall is limited to vehicles equipped with 8.4-inch touchscreens.

FCA says that it "is unaware of any injuries related to software exploitation, nor is it aware of any related complaints, warranty claims or accidents" apart from the hacking demo reported in the media.

THE NEW FACE OF RECALLS?

The FCA recall is interesting because it's among the first we've seen intended to stop hackers from taking control of vehicles. It's also interesting because it can be carried out in so many ways:

Consumers can visit a dealership, where mechanics will apply the fix in about 30 - 45 minutes;
They can use the USB drive that will accompany the recall notice to apply the update themselves; or,
Those who don't want to wait can download the fix from DriveUconnect.com, put it onto their own jump drive, and install the upgrade that way.

In addition, FCA says that it has upgraded the Uconnect network to prevent hacks like the one we discussed on Wednesday. That upgrade shields owners from threats whether or not consumers have updated the software in their own vehicles.

[mlh]

I think we will find out they are all venerable to hacking. They can all be linked to a cell phone and can all be hacked. My wife's Ford Escape has electric steering and can park itself. All a hacker has to do is get into the computer put a program in that says that once the car gets to 50 MPG to go to wide open throttle and take a hard turn to the left. And there is nothing you as the driver can do about it. We don't control these cars anymore the computer does.
Lynwood

[Dam Worker]

Unfortunately there are too many people that have a lot of talent but use it in the wrong way. Some are bored, some are mad and some want to actually cause major heartache and mayhem. If they could only have their abilities used in a positive way the world would be in a lot better position.

Tom Marty

[DQDick]

Glad I have an older dumber truck. They also mentioned something about sprint being involved, but I didn't catch if your phone had to be on the sprint network for them to get in.

[Rondo]

I know what you mean Dick! I'm sure they will find that all vehicles- Chevy, GMC, Fords, and even the imports are vulnerable to hackers if they just want to take the time to do it! I've got a 2012 3500 and didn't get any of the in-dash items so I guess I qualify as having a dumb truck also just like my flip phone!

[rames14]

Our 2013 Ram was hacked and driven to Iowa in April. Found a new Montana hooked to the back of it and a big bill. Maybe Ram will pick up the cost of that also. Guess I need to call the dealer Monday.

[Rondo]

Give it a try Ron! Who knows what Leach will do!

[PackerFan]

rames14: That one cracked me up!! LOL

I just ordered a 2016 Ram 3500, hopefully mine will be a lot smarter!

[Artemus Gordon]

I think if a "hacker" with the skill set needed to hack anyone of my cars, targets me, he is sorely wasting his time. I not worth the time or effort. Should I be in a massive "Freeway" attack by hackers, causing accidents then I probably could not escape unharmed. Therefore I will get the download and give this no more thought! I gave up my decoder ring, and resigned from SPECTOR years ago....

[mlh]

I think the whole thing is well overblown. Who would back into someone's personal vehicle. Sure they could, any computer connected to the internet by line or phone can be hacked, but why. What would they benefit? Nothing. So why bother when there are bigger fish to fry.
Lynwood

[jfaberna]

I think Uconnect is only vulnerable if you have the service turned-on which cost. Once I thought about this, I canceled my Uconnect because all I can do is unlock and blow the horn. Not worth $15 a month.

[tomNtrisha]

I want to know who you file travel plans with so the hackers can take care of the driving so I can relax and enjoy the trip LOL#128523;

[mlh]

Yes but they would get you almost there and run you in a ditch.
Lynwood

I want to know who you file travel plans with so the hackers can take care of the driving so I can relax and enjoy the trip LOL#128523;