Drivers have been warned that connected features in modern vehicles, including microphones, cameras and GPS systems, could potentially be exploited by hostile actors to gather sensitive information.
The warning comes from the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD), which urged greater awareness of the security risks associated with increasingly connected vehicles. The agency said modern cars collect significant amounts of data about occupants, vehicles and their surroundings, creating potential opportunities for unauthorised access.
The warning has particular relevance in the UK, where Chinese-owned vehicle brands have rapidly expanded their market share. Chinese-owned brands accounted for about 15% of new car registrations in the first half of 2026, with almost 175,000 vehicles registered during the period.
Security concerns have also prompted restrictions around some sensitive British military locations. The UK Ministry of Defence has said it is working with other government departments to understand and mitigate potential national security risks associated with connected vehicles.
The AIVD said some vehicle microphones and cameras can technically be activated remotely, while Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and charging connections could potentially provide pathways for accessing data from connected devices.
The agency advised motorists to avoid holding confidential conversations in or around vehicles and to exercise caution when taking connected cars to sensitive locations.
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