BlackBerry has denied all the rumors and accusations that the recent Fiat Chrysler hack was due to a flaw in its software. Last month, security researchers revealed an embedded flaw in the uConnect in-vehicle infotainment system used in Fiat Chrysler cars, which risked the lives of the driver and passengers.
BlackBerry: not my fault
This flaw came to light when a few security researchers decided to demonstrate their ability by accessing the Chrysler’s uConnect integrated engine computers without any authentic ID. Thereafter, it was possible for them to operate the moving vehicle wirelessly. The experts gained complete control over its steering mechanism, transmission, brakes and dashboard.
BlackBerry was dragged into the matter, as one of its subsidiaries is engaged in production of the real-time operating system QNX Neutrino, and the uConnect system is a part of it. The uConnect system has QNX OS as one of the main components, and it also acts as the brain of the uConnect system. Therefore, BlackBerry is being held responsible for the flaw in the security system of the QNX OS.
In its clarification, BlackBerry said the hack could have taken place due to incompetent software components that are no way related to the QNX Neutrino.
Could be disastrous for BlackBerry
Answering questions about if its software is to blame for the vulnerability, the Canadian firm said, “We can state unequivocally that it is not.” In a blog post on Monday, BlackBerry said, “QNX Neutrino OS has been deployed in more than 60 million vehicles and field-proven in a host of mission-critical and safety-critical applications.” Despite denying its role, there are possibilities that the Canadian firm, like Fiat Chrysler, may also face a class-action lawsuit.
BlackBerry has tough competitors in the form of Android and iOS, which have almost thrown it out of the handset business. After failing in the hardware business, the company relies heavily on software licensing, and one part of it is QNX. Therefore, it is quite obvious that the Canadian firm would want to remain clean of any controversy and does not want itself to be associated with the recent hacking scandal. If BlackBerry’s fault is proven in the case, it could be disastrous for the firm, which is still in the turnaround process.
