In a disturbing case of tech-facilitated domestic abuse, a Sydney woman's Tesla was remotely controlled by her abusive ex-partner, highlighting the dark side of connected car technology. The incident, reported in Australia news, reveals how a former partner exploited the vehicle's digital features to harass and control his victim.
What Happened? A Timeline of Harassment
Stacey* first noticed something was wrong when her Tesla's alarm sounded at night, but the car appeared undamaged. However, the dashboard had been reset, and a “parental control” profile was added, which she couldn't access. Her ex-partner, Enrico Pucci, later admitted, “I am in your car. I am in your maps,” showing his remote access.
Between 6 and 12 November 2025, Pucci remotely alternated the car's temperature from extreme cold to hot, limited speed, and activated “Valet Mode,” reducing speed to 40 km/h, causing safety issues. This control extended to locks and curfews, making Stacey feel trapped and unsafe.
The Risks of Connected Car Technology
Modern vehicles like Tesla are equipped with advanced connectivity features that offer convenience but also create vulnerabilities. In cases of domestic abuse, abusers can exploit these features to monitor, threaten, or control victims. Remote access to vehicle functions can be used for harassment, as seen here, and even to endanger the victim's life.
| Feature | Potential Misuse |
|---|---|
| Parental Controls | Restricting speed, setting curfews |
| Climate Control | Extreme temperature changes |
| GPS Tracking | Monitoring locations |
| Valet Mode | Limiting speed to 40km/h |
Safety Measures for Victims of Tech Abuse
If you or someone you know is experiencing tech-facilitated abuse, it's crucial to take steps to protect yourself:
- Change all passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Factory reset your vehicle's infotainment system to remove unauthorized profiles.
- Contact your car manufacturer to report unauthorized access.
- Seek help from local domestic violence services and legal authorities.
Stacey's case is a stark reminder that connected cars require awareness of digital security. Manufacturers should improve security features to prevent such abuse, and legal systems must address tech-facilitated stalking and harassment.
FAQ
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