Slashdot Mirror

← Back to Stories (view on slashdot.org)

Hacking a Tesla Model S Could Net $10,000 Prize

Posted by timothy on from the usb-port-under-the-gas-cap dept.

cartechboy (2660665) writes "It seems there's a new hack challenge set every week, but this time, it seems different. A challenge has been thrown down to hack a Tesla Model S with a $10,000 prize. The organizers of a computer security conference have set the challenge and it's open to anyone that registers for the Syscan conference. Taking place in Beijing from July 16-17, the rules for the hack competition haven't been revealed yet but a Model S will be on display for hackers to try their luck on. It's important to note that Tesla itself isn't involved in the competition in any official capacity, nor does it support the competition. If successful, this wouldn't be the first time a Tesla Model S has been hacked. In that instance Tesla was quick to warn people that making changes in the Model S' software would immediately void the car's warranty. Given the car's high-tech nature, it's no shock Tesla's taking security seriously. With $10,000 on the line, it'll be interesting to see if anyone manages to crack the code."

7 of 77 comments (clear)

  1. Something missing from the summary by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Interesting

    Recently a Tesla Model S was stolen from a dealership and destroyed, and they haven't figured out how the guy managed to do it.

    1. Re:Something missing from the summary by GrumpySteen · · Score: 2

      The Tesla S has a keyless ignition. The key just has to be in range of the vehicle and you can press the start button and take off, even the key isn't in the car with you. Only after you park the car will it refuse to go any further. All the guy had to do was get into the car and that's not that difficult even if the door is locked.

      Tesla wants to examine the wreckage because it's an unusual accident and could provide insights into ways that they could improve the structure of the car, not because they can't figure out how someone started it and drove off.

  2. Void warranty by js3 · · Score: 4, Interesting

    How is voiding the warranty threat show they are taking security seriously? Everyone puts a voids the warranty warning when they don't want you to see whats inside. IF someone hacks your car is the warranty still void?

    --
    did you forget to take your meds?
  3. Re:what happens if a failed hack bricks the firmwa by CanHasDIY · · Score: 2

    what happens if a failed hack bricks the firmware in a way that the next person / group can't do anything more when it is there trun?

    Then it was a successful hack!

    --
    An enigma, wrapped in a riddle, shrouded in bacon and cheese
  4. Re:Cheap bastards by Sable+Drakon · · Score: 2

    This isn't Pwn2Own. You do not get the car if you manage to hack into it.

    --
    The Amarri pray for god, the Caldari pray for profit. the Gallente pray for peace, but the Minmatar pray their ships hol
  5. Re:Cheap bastards by vux984 · · Score: 5, Insightful

    You do not get the car if you manage to hack into it.

    I guess that depends how well he hacks it. :p

  6. brilliant reselling opportunity! by Cardoor · · Score: 2

    offer 10k as prize.. get participants to sign proper IP release.. then with hack in hand (and legal ownership), offer it to Tesla for... one BILLION dollars!