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EV hacking risks: Could cybercriminals remotely take control of your car?

EV hacking risks: Could cybercriminals remotely take control of your car?

Ewn.Co.Za • October 5, 2026

After a remote hack exposed security risks in the BYD Shark 6 Plug-In Hybrid , EV owners are concerned their vehicles.

Boikokobetso Makhetloane, aka Mr Fingerz, is a South African cybersecurity professional and digital fraud investigator. He joined Jacob Moshokoa on CapeTalk to dive into electric vehicle hacking and whether cybercriminals can remotely control your car.

In the case of the BYD Shark 6, a cybersecurity specialist could remotely lock the doors, control the wipers, and switch off the headlights, demonstrating the potential vulnerabilities of modern vehicles.

Makhetloane said many connected cars are susceptible, and even though the vulnerability in the Shark 6 was patched, it is unclear if the car is fully secure.

He strongly advises car buyers to enquire data collection, storage, and security measures before purchasing an electric vehicle, as these contribute greatly to how safe or vulnerable your car is. Keeping software updated is also highly important, he explained.

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