BeARCAT - Baselining, Automation and Response for CAV Testbed Cybersecurity

BeARCAT is a feasibility study that explores the 'Threats to Vehicle Networks' theme of the 'Connected and Autonomous Vehicle Cybersecurity' competition. While CAVs' benefits are enormous, mass connectivity makes them a target for a range of cyber attacks. Connected Automated Mobility deployed in public areas increases the risk of network intrusion, disruption, deception and denial of service attacks. Vehicle and network links therefore need to be thoroughly tested, developed and validated in controlled environments prior to deployment to combat these threats. This provision does not exist in a coherent or nationally coordinated way. This in stark contrast to increasingly sophisticated and organised cyber threat.

Whilst some progress has been made in developing standards for CAV Cybersecurity. Measuring and testing Cybersecurity remains a particular challenge. The lack of regulation and standards relating to Cybersecurity and vehicle networks compounds this. National and international standards require significant further development. BeARCAT therefore seeks to explore the feasibility of a coherent, holistic approach to Cybersecurity testing for Connected Vehicle networks in the UK through CAV Testbeds.

BeARCAT's overall approach will involve examination and identification of procedures and specifications to test cyber-physical and software architectures, provide guidance as well as an overview of best practices along the complete chain from design to deployment and certification. This exploration will consider a testing and assessment approach covering a wide variety of potential access points including Vehicle to Device (V2D), Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V), Vehicle to Infrastructure (V2I) and Vehicle to Network (V2N). Using WMG's, Cisco and O2 Telefonica's Cybersecurity, CAV and network expertise to fully understand the range of threats posed.

BeARCAT's final outputs include a Phase 2 Outline Plan and a Business Model for Cybersecurity connected vehicle testing in CAV testbeds for further development and trialling. BeARCAT brings together a strong partnership, from Millbrook's expertise in CAV testbed environments, Cisco's capabilities in secure networks, the operational expertise of one of the UK's largest mobile operators to the research excellence of WMG's Cyber Security Centre.