Experts ​alerted motor trade to security risks of ‘smart key’ systems which have now fuelled highest level of car thefts for a decade

Experts ​alerted motor trade to security risks of ‘smart key’ systems which have now fuelled highest level of car thefts for a decade.

  • @AA5BEnglish
    1•9 months ago

    I just looked it up specifically for Tesla ….

    • there are descriptions of a successful relay attack in 2022

    HOWEVER

    • the relay had to be within 2” of the key card or phone
    • I expect Tesla responded, although I didn’t look that up
    • while I originally could just walk up to my Tesla to use it, now I need to unlock my phone, at least implying that either Tesla or Apple prevented relay attacks by blocking the key when you’re not using it

    The real question, is how easy is the car to “hot wire”. Older cars could be hot wired by breaking off the ignition lock, but now cars with keys have an immobilizer to prevent that (except of course Kia/Hyundai). So, can the lack of a key fob be easily worked around to start a car, like a Kia, or is it more complex like a key with an immobilizer chip, and an immobilizer circuit in the engine control?

    • @[email protected]English
      1•9 months ago

      I think the next step is likely biometrics. Using a fingerprint or something to disengage the immobilizer. Having something like a programming key for the vehicle so users can enroll new fingerprints into the ignition.

      I don’t know, it might be a bit more inconvenient than other options. IMO, they can keep the fob for door unlocking but have another factor for the immobilizer. Both the fob and fingerprint need to be present to engage the starter.

      I’m sure it’s something that the automotive companies are thinking about.