Auto tech startup claims it traced hack attempt back to rival's IP address
IQ.Lvbs implies that rival Comma.ai isn't playing fair
An automotive technology startup, IQ.Lvbs, claims that its systems were targeted in a hack attempt, with the attackers attempting to steal its driving model and access users' devices and private driving files. The alleged security incident was detailed in a recent blog post. IQ.Lvbs introduced NovaSpark, the company's first model for its IQ.Pilot app, through the Comma.ai Discord channel on October 3, as the model necessitates the use of Comma.ai's camera hardware.
Between October 7 and 14, numerous attempts were made to steal NovaSpark, gain access to users' devices and private driving files, and exploit the sign-in system. The initial requests originated from an IP address linked to Comma.ai Inc. Following the alleged attacks, IQ.Lvbs' team was banned from the Comma.ai Discord channel on October 8.
One of the three individuals involved, a UI/UX designer identified as "Cat," speculated that NovaSpark is more advanced than Comma.ai's latest models, which could threaten Comma.ai's core business of selling AI-powered hardware. Comma.ai's chief technology officer, Harald Schäfer, tweeted that NovaSpark was derived from Comma.ai's Rebellious Hope model, though IQ.Lvbs disputes this claim.
The company maintains that its work was done independently. The leaked log data from IQ.Lvbs identifies the username "haraschax" as being associated with the Comma.ai IP addresses. However, Comma.ai and Schäfer have not responded to requests for comment. Comma.ai is currently under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for possible involvement in five crashes and three deaths. IQ.Lvbs is considering legal action against the alleged hackers and exploring other legal options.
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