Malware can access data and information that are stored in control units, in the Infotainment system and on connected or paired
mobile telephones. In spite of integrated security mechanisms and regularly performed over-the-air updates, malware can still
damage or cause malfunctions of the control units and vehicle. Damage to and malfunctions of the control units and vehicle can also
occur if you connect mobile devices to the vehicle that are infected with malware. The damage may mean complete loss of the data,
and malfunctions can lead to serious accidents and fatal injuries.
● If the vehicle functions or reacts differently than normal, reduce speed in a controlled manner and contact a suitably qualified
workshop.
● After updates are made available, carry them out as quickly as possible or have them installed by a suitably qualified workshop.
● Protect mobile devices by means of a suitable anti-virus program and generally known precautionary measures. Regularly update
the appropriate anti-virus program with the updates from the respective provider.
Minimising risks
You too can reduce 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 updates that are made available by Volkswagen carried out by a suitably qualified workshop as soon as possible after they are
made available. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer. If it is possible for you to perform over-the-air
updates for your vehicle and in your country, carry out updates that are made available by Volkswagen immediately. If the driver
repeatedly rejects the over-the-air update, it is then necessary to visit a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using
an authorised Volkswagen repairer.
—Have the vehicle serviced, repaired and maintained only by a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an
authorised Volkswagen repairer.
Over-the-air updates allow you to always keep the software of your vehicle up-to-date, e.g. in order to optimise the vehicle functions
and for protection against malware.
Over-the-air updates and app updates
Two types of updates are offered to you in your vehicle: over-the-air updates and app updates.
The over-the-air updates are comprehensive updates and update the vehicle’s entire control software. Over-the-air updates are
available to you only after you have concluded a contract with Volkswagen AG for use of the online services.
Further information on using mobile online services .
App updates update the apps available in the vehicle and are also available without a current contract with Volkswagen AG for use of
the online services.
Further information on app updates (→ In-Car Shop).
How can you recognise when an over-the-air update is available?
An available over-the-air update is displayed to you in the Infotainment system.
If several over-the-air updates are available for the vehicle at the same time, one over-the-air update must first be completed
successfully before the next over-the-air update can be performed.
In your own interest, over-the-air updates should be carried out as soon as possible. If the driver repeatedly rejects the over-
the-air update, it is then necessary to visit a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised
Volkswagen repairer.
WARNING
It is possible in very rare cases that a control unit will not function properly after an over-the-air update. Malfunctions of a control
unit and the vehicle can lead to serious accidents and fatal injuries.
● Reduce speed in a controlled manner if the vehicle functions or reacts differently than usual when driving.
● Please contact a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.
WARNING
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