The famous Pwn2Own is a famous contest where security researchers can show off their skills and earn money by finding vulnerabilities in different programs. Interestingly, in this year’s automotive category, the sole target will be Tesla’s brand-new Model 3.
The automaker is partnering with Pwn2Own organizers to bring Model 3 as the sold target in the automotive category. By doing this, Tesla is challenging security researchers to find new ways for compromise the car’s security system. For the single winner that manages to break through all of the car’s barriers, they will be awarded with the car itself. That’s right, the winner will get the car as their prize.
This is the first time a car has been put up to the test at the Pwn2Own contest. Though, this doesn’t and shouldn’t come as a surprise because it will show how committed Tesla is the digital security and how seriously it. “Our work with the security research community is invaluable to us,” said Tesla’s vehicle software chief David Lau. “We look forward to learning about and rewarding great work in Pwn2Own so that we can continue to improve our products and our approach.”
Outside of this entry in the Pwn2Own contest, Tesla has run a bug bounty program since 2014 that allows (and encourages) security researchers to report any vulnerability findings directly to the automaker in exchange for payment(s). This is something that other automakers have adopted as well, such as General Motors and Fiat Chrysler.
