How Bosch understands data security in connected driving

Core message: The benefits of connectivity must far outweigh the potential risks. To realize the connected functions of the future, the transmission of personal data is inevitable. The driver can decide which data to make public and which not to make public. Transparency and autonomy are two key elements in our data application policy. To protect data security, Bosch focuses on creating a multi-layered security concept, including: dual architecture, secure E/E (electronic/electrical) architecture and gateways. Data transmission uses the latest encryption technology, such as that provided by our subsidiary escrypt. We will fully utilize data security protection measures when using data to win the trust of users and hope to improve competitiveness and gain competitive advantages.

How does Bosch ensure data security and privacy?

By carefully handling and applying the user data generated by IoT solutions, we hope to build trust among our customers and gain a competitive advantage over other companies that handle customer data in a more opaque manner. In short, our goal is to "increase competitive advantage by building trust". In the connected business, we focus on achieving the highest level of data security and providing protection against data misuse. As for data transmission, we use the most advanced encryption technology.

To develop successful IoT solutions, we must gain the trust of our users. Bosch therefore places particular emphasis on high responsibility and transparency in the use of customer data. We will tell our customers which data we want to use for what purpose and will explicitly ask for their permission. The Internet of Things can only become a reality if people have complete trust in the security of its information. Our clear goal is: the benefits of connectivity must far outweigh the risks.

How to deal with data security issues? How does Bosch ensure that the data provided by the vehicle is not misused?

To realize the connected functions of the future, it is inevitable to collect a certain amount of personal data. Drivers must be able to clearly decide which data to make public and which not. Our principle is clear: only use data that is really necessary. We firmly believe that the potential benefits of connectivity for drivers far outweigh the potential risks. For data transmission, we use state-of-the-art encryption technology, such as the security software developed by our subsidiary escrypt. In addition, transparency and customer autonomy are key points in our data use policy. After all, the Internet of Things cannot succeed without people's trust. Our goal is to ensure that the benefits of connectivity outweigh its risks.

How does Bosch ensure data security in the car? Will hackers be able to hack into vehicles in the future?

We must maintain high security standards for automotive electronics. With a dual architecture, we will strictly distinguish between functions that are relevant to driving, such as driver assistance systems, and those that are not relevant to driving itself, such as infotainment systems. In the future, hardware security modules will also protect the communication of each control unit. Escrypt, a Bosch subsidiary since 2012, is also developing the software for this.

What is Bosch’s view on the EU’s new data protection regulations?

After long negotiations, the EU finalized the drafting of the new data protection regulation and directive in May 2016, which will enter into force on May 25, 2018. Until then, member states have time to respond to the open provisions of the directive through national legislation (which they can choose to implement in some cases, but are required to do so in others). Bosch has been closely following the developments of the German Ministry of the Interior and welcomes the unanimous decision of the plenary session of the Parliament to significantly reduce the national exemptions that were originally proposed. The legislation was finally adopted by all parties on May 12, 2017, but it still contains some exemptions, such as video surveillance in public places and the processing of personal data in companies, to name just a few.

OEMs have their own cloud systems - why would they use Bosch's Automotive Cloud Suite?

What is Bosch Automotive Cloud Suite? Bosch Automotive Cloud Suite is a new platform for intelligent transportation services. The Automotive Cloud Suite provides a software platform for all vehicle manufacturers and transportation service providers, and is also a comprehensive toolkit that can help them develop more services designed for drivers and help them quickly capture the market.

Almost all OEMs now rely on IT service providers to support their solutions; in other words, OEMs also rely on internal freelance teams to develop some of their services. Bosch Automotive Cloud Suite is a service we provide to OEMs as a supplier. What differentiates us from other suppliers is that we combine deep automotive technology with IT expertise in the Automotive Cloud Suite.