Pranksters Hack Into Electronic Construction Signs

Zombies and vampires are the last think you?d want to see while driving, but that?s just what many Southern Colorado construction signs are telling you to beware of.

Hackers are changing the safety messages on electronic road construction signs. The results can be humorous, but it?s not laughing matter to those charged with keeping you safe.

?Roadways aren’t built by just wishing them in. They are built by constructing them in. That’s what these traffic control devices are for,? said Rick Bowman co-owner of Barricade & Sign.

You are not always getting the message you are suppose to see. Pranksters have changed messages on several electronic signs in Colorado Springs and Pueblo over the last few days.

?It may be funny to them, but it is a real safety hazard to those that may be living in the area or traveling in the area,? said Bowman.

The message often warns drivers of changes to the roadway or detours, and it?s not easy to hack in.

?Most of our people have to sit and read the manual, sometimes before they change the sign to make sure they are doing it right. These are not real easy to do,? said Bowman.

He said while it could be someone who works there, he believes teenagers are responsible.

His message for the culprits, ?It may be funny, and you may think it?s cute, but it will be your responsibility when somebody gets killed.?

Bowman wanted to remind drivers who see a sign changed to be extra careful driving in that area.