A recent incident at an electric car charging station in Finland has drawn attention as a team from a local cybersecurity firm, Juurin Oy, successfully hacked the station to play the iconic video game Doom. This unusual demonstration took place during the Pwn2Own Automotive 2026 hacking competition in Tokyo, where the firm was rewarded with $20,000 (approximately €17,300) for their hack. The manipulation involved accessing the charging station's internal components, suggesting vulnerabilities that could allow unauthorized uses of such devices.

The method employed by the hackers included opening the charging station's panel and connecting a network cable to a service port. This entry point allowed them to bypass the intended use of the device, effectively demonstrating the potential risks associated with electric car charging infrastructure. Aapo Oksman, the founder of Juurin Oy, noted that the developer's reaction was one of amusement, as they expressed curiosity about how to play Doom themselves, highlighting a unique intersection between cybersecurity and gaming.

This incident not only showcases the versatility of modern technology but also raises important questions regarding the security of electric vehicle infrastructure. With the increasing reliance on digital systems for everyday functions, the ability to control devices at such a level presents both opportunities and challenges. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, ensuring the integrity and security of charging stations will be crucial to prevent potential misuse and to safeguard users' data and safety.