Modern cars can be used for espionage by hostile states

The smart functions built into modern cars, such as microphones, cameras and GPS, can be used by hostile states for espionage, The Guardian reports, referring to a report recently released by the Dutch intelligence and security service, Aivd.

Aivd states that it is "technically possible" to activate microphones and cameras remotely in some cars. The advice to be careful with the risks is primarily aimed at high-ranking people in business and politics.

There are digital systems in cars that can collect data, for example when you connect to the internet or connect your phone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Conversations or travel information may be of interest to malicious parties.

"On the one hand, this offers practical advantages, but on the other hand, these systems collect a large amount of data about passengers, the vehicle itself, and about objects and people nearby. Different parties, including state actors, can access this data," the report says.

The report doesn't come out of nowhere. Last year, British defense companies, which work for the country's government, went out and warned their staff against connecting or pairing their phones to Chinese-made electric cars. Behind the warning was a fear that China could get hold of sensitive information.

Chinese-owned car brands account for 15 per cent of all new cars registered in the UK. Models from MG, BYD and Jaecoo are the most common.