European Intelligence Warns of Espionage Risks from Connected Vehicles

• •Dutch AIVD warns against treating modern cars as private spaces due to espionage risks.
• •MI5 links the China General Technology Research Institute to Chinese state security efforts.
• •Concerns are rising over data security and technological dependence on Chinese manufacturers.

European intelligence agencies, including the Dutch AIVD, have issued warnings about the security vulnerabilities of modern connected vehicles, which can potentially be exploited for espionage. The AIVD's notice advises against treating cars as private spaces due to risks of remote activation of microphones and cameras. Although the warning does not explicitly name China, it coincides with MI5's announcement regarding the China General Technology Research Institute's ties to Chinese intelligence. The AIVD urges users to avoid confidential conversations near their vehicles and to limit sensitive data entry into onboard systems. The warnings reflect broader concerns about data security and technological dependence on Chinese manufacturers as their electric vehicles gain market presence in Europe. The implications extend beyond vehicles to university partnerships and semiconductor research, highlighting a complex trade-off for European governments between security and economic interests.