GM As Critical Infrastructure

Kevin Tierney, GM’s chief cybersecurity officer, is increasingly focusing on power-grid security due to the shift away from gas-powered cars. This, in turn, makes GM a critical infrastructure provider as they set up charging stations across the country. Unlike gas stations which are usually independently owned and operated, charging stations are often run by the vehicle manufacturer.

As GM transitions into an infrastructure provider, new cyber risks emerge. Vulnerable charging stations can be exploited by hackers to skim credit-card details or hijack networks.

At the upper end of risks, hacked charging stations could damage a vehicle, or turn themselves off. If an entire manufacturer’s network of charging stations went down it could effectively stop all of their electric vehicles from operating.

“It’s truly an issue that is going to take everyone working together to get ahead of,” Mr. Tierney said.