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ADAC study reveals ongoing security flaws in keyless car systems
A decade-long study by the ADAC involving over 850 vehicles has revealed persistent security vulnerabilities in keyless entry systems. Despite advancements in automotive safety, many manufacturers still utilize outdated standards that are susceptible to relay attacks. In these thefts, criminals use specialized devices to intercept and extend the radio signal between a key and a vehicle, allowing them to unlock and start cars even if the key is located inside a nearby home.
The research indicates that while approximately 70% of tested vehicles have improved security, nearly half of the vehicles examined can still be opened using signal extension techniques. In about one-third of those cases, thieves were also able to illegally start the engine.
To combat this, some manufacturers have transitioned to Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology, which is considered highly secure. The ADAC is calling for all car manufacturers to adopt modern security standards, noting that the technology to prevent these well-known thefts is available and can be implemented with minimal additional costs.
Entities
ADAC · Apple · Google · Volkswagen
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Volkswagen is enabling digital car keys via Apple Wallet.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Modern vehicles feature emergency receivers to read key transponders at close range if batteries are dead.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Digital key functionality via Apple Wallet requires ID series vehicles and software version 6.0.1.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology is considered a secure standard for keyless systems. blomberg-nachrichten.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Approximately one in three vehicles tested could have their engines started illegally via signal extension. blomberg-nachrichten.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] ADAC testing of over 850 vehicles shows nearly half can still be opened using signal extension devices. blomberg-nachrichten.de