Connectivity -> Cyber security for Your Volkswagen California Van Third Generation (2015-2024)

Never place any objects on the MultiFlex board while the vehicle is in motion.  
The multi-flex board must always be fitted in the seat rails and must be securely engaged when the vehicle is in  
motion.  
Cyber security  
Cyber security refers to measures designed to reduce the risk of unauthorised access by malware or an internet  
attack on vehicle functions, data and control units.  
What are connectivity components?  
Control units for data transmission, interfaces, and also media and diagnostic connections are connectivity  
components via which information and data can be exchanged between the vehicle and external devices or the  
internet. Not all vehicles are fitted with connectivity components.  
Connectivity components are the key locations for cyber security. Connectivity components are also equipped with  
security mechanisms designed to minimise the risk of unauthorised access to vehicle systems.  
The connectivity components include the following in particular:  
Diagnostic socket.  
Control unit with built-ineSIM  
card, e.g. the We Connect control unit (OCU).  
Mobile phone interface.  
App-Connect.  
Wi-Fi  
hotspot.  
NFC  
radio technology.  
Bluetooth® interface.  
USB  
port.  
SD  
card slot.  
SIM  
card slot.  
Security mechanisms  
The software and security mechanisms in the vehicle are subject to continuous further development. As with  
computers and mobile telephone operating systems, the software and security mechanisms in the vehicle can also be  
updated at irregular intervals.  
Software updates improve the security, stability and running speeds of the vehicle systems in vehicles.  
WARNING  
In spite of the integrated security mechanisms, malware can cause malfunctions in control units and vehicle  
functions. This can result in serious accidents and fatal injuries.  
Reduce speed in a controlled manner if the vehicle functions or reacts differently than usual.  
Go to the nearest suitably qualified workshop.  
Malware can also access data and information that are stored in control units, in the Infotainment system and  
on connected data media and paired mobile telephones.  
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Minimising risk  
You can also take your own steps to minimise the risk of unauthorised access to vehicle systems and functions:  
Use only data media, Bluetooth devices and mobile telephones in the vehicle than do not contain manipulated data  
or malware.  
Have the vehicle serviced, repaired and maintained only by a correspondingly qualified workshop.  
WARNING  
Computers, data media and mobile telephones that are connected to the internet or that are used in public and  
private networks may be infected by manipulated data or have malware installed on them.  
Protect computers, data media and mobile telephones by means of a suitable anti-virus program and generally  
known precautionary measures.  
Regularly update the appropriate anti-virus program with the system updates or upgrades from the provider.  
Introduction  
The system update is a preventive measure, e.g. to optimise the software and to provide protection against  
malware.  
A system update allows the software of control units in the vehicle to be updated.  
There are two possibilities, depending on vehicle and country:  
System update by a qualified workshop.  
System update by Volkswagen by means of anover-the-air update.  
What is a system update?  
The “system update” function enables Volkswagen to update the control unit software in the vehicle without you  
having to attend a qualified workshop.  
Each system update has two phases – download followed by software installation.  
The “system update” function is only available in some countries and is not available for all vehicles.  
How do I know when a system update is available?  
The switched-on Infotainment system indicates that a system update is available.  
If several system updates are available for the vehicle at the same time, one system update must first be installed  
successfully before the next system update can be executed.  
WARNING  
It is possible in very rare cases that a control unit will not function properly after a software installation process.  
Do not use the vehicle. Contact Customer Care at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.  
WARNING  
If the digital instrument cluster does not function after software installation, no instruments, warning lamps,  
symbols or text messages can be displayed. Driving with a digital instrument cluster that is not working can cause  
accidents and fatal injuries.  
Do not use the vehicle. Contact Customer Care at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.  
A system update may delete any previous action designed to enhance performance or efficiency, such as  
engine tuning, that was not performed by Volkswagen AG.  
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