Keyless Gone – Vulnerabilities in keyless car systems

keylessgo(written by Antonia Böttinger and Andreas Gold)

Introduction

Modern cars embed complex technologies to improve the drivers comfort and safety. In 1999 the automobil industry introduced the smart key system that more and more cars use. Even if manufacturers make use of various designations like Keyless Go, KeyFree Power or Smart Key the technique is still similar.

Traditionally, access and authorization to drive and start cars have been achieved by using physical keys and lock systems. Smart key systems allow the car owners to comfortably open and start their cars while keeping their keys in their pockets. Same applies for stopping the engine and closing the car. However, this luxury contains a great security breach. Car thieves use this comfort for their own purpose. They steal cars equipped with this technology within seconds.

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