Posted on 08/20/2010 1:23:35 PM PDT by epithermal
NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – New wireless technologies in cars may compromise a driver’s privacy and pose a security threat, warn researchers at Rutgers University.
Modern automobiles are increasingly equipped with wireless sensors and devices, such as systems that monitor air pressure inside tires and trigger dashboard warnings if a tire’s pressure drops. The Rutgers researchers have shown that these wireless signals can be intercepted 120 feet away from the car using a simple receiver despite the shielding provided by the metal car body.
Since signals in tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) include unique codes from each wheel sensor, this raises concerns that drivers’ locations could be tracked more easily than through other means, such as capturing images of license plates.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.rutgers.edu ...
How about using it as a cheap version of OnStar, albeit of rather limited range. Cops could monitor for stolen vehicles as they do their rounds and could be alerted when in the vicinity of suspected stolen vehicles (assuming the ID of the pressure device is known for the vehicle).
Or, how about setting up a receiving unit at the site of known drug activity and record all vehicles that enter the area?
Or, use it to activate a driveway gate that only lets your vehicles in and out?
Or, while away from home hook a receiver to the internet that reports to you via email if your car at home drives off.
Some ideas, maybe dumb, but fun to think about.
This is true. I just read on the internet that my wife's former college professor's dentist's cousin has only 24 psi in his left rear tire!
I was at the tire shop the other day and the guy there said they are required by law now on all new vehicles. I haven’t checked up on his statement to see if it is true and this may only apply in my state.
I’m certain that the tire shop was correct that they are now required.
It’s probably a good thing, but I have kept my tires inflated correctly for many years without wireless.
At the same time virtually everyone in the cars have wireless phones with unique IDs. DOH!
“You mean that someone 120 feet away can tell how much air I have in my tire? The horror!!”
If the computer sub-circuits talk to each other, he may be able to tell when you are due for your next service, and what your max speed warning is set for. Or your radio presets.
But more seriously how about if getting into the system by wireless opened it up for the electronic entry and start codes?
Don't you all see what's happening here?
Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPM) became a forced requirement during the BUSH administration.
You see it's BUSHES fault.
You can't make this stuff up!
sarc/>
Our driving is now less safe because of Bush.
Now, back to my beer.
I wish you all a great weekend!
A spy, or a government, or a government agency.
Not dumb at all.
Add to it, cars at a political rally, campaign event, fundraiser.
Not only that, but auto insurance is socialism!!! ;’)
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