A study by computer scientists from the University of Michigan shows how easy it is to hack and control traffic lights.
As reported on Vox, using only a laptop and wireless card that operates at the wirelessly operated traffic light frequency (5.8 gigahertz), the scientists controlled a number of intersections within Michigan. By hacking into the system, the study was able to "alter the normal timing pattern of the lights, turning all the lights along a given route green, for instance, or freezing an intersection with all reds."
About 62 percent of traffic lights throughout the nation are connected to ensure communications with central operations hubs to optimize traffic congestion. However, these systems currently lack the architecture for security and preventing attacks.
According to Joseph Stromberg, once the researchers accessed the network, "they could use a series of simple commands to freeze the traffic lights in their current state, or turn all lights red, or alter the timing of the light changes. The one thing they couldn't do was give all sides of an intersection a green light."
FULL STORY: Here's how easy it is to hack a traffic light with a laptop

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

San Antonio and Austin are Fusing Into one Massive Megaregion
The region spanning the two central Texas cities is growing fast, posing challenges for local infrastructure and water supplies.

Since Zion's Shuttles Went Electric “The Smog is Gone”
Visitors to Zion National Park can enjoy the canyon via the nation’s first fully electric park shuttle system.

Trump Distributing DOT Safety Funds at 1/10 Rate of Biden
Funds for Safe Streets and other transportation safety and equity programs are being held up by administrative reviews and conflicts with the Trump administration’s priorities.

German Cities Subsidize Taxis for Women Amid Wave of Violence
Free or low-cost taxi rides can help women navigate cities more safely, but critics say the programs don't address the root causes of violence against women.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie