Smart Key For Multi-Control Of Your Car

Translated from German by Abha Vardhan (2019)

The truth is that there is nothing like a smart key because it has no thinking capability and it has only two functions, which are yes or no. In addition, you can simply outsmart it so that it functions Yes when it would have been a No. In fact, the term ‘Smart Key’ is misleading.

The Difference Between PKE and RKE

PKE is a security system for an automobile that works automatically when the owner is near the vehicle. It quickly unlocks the door when you approach and when you pull the door handle. It also locks it when the owner moves far away from the car. These PKE systems can also ensure the security of buildings.

A PKE gadget can still operate while it’s in your pocket or bag without you holding it. The PKE system usually includes a Radio Frequency or RF key fob; however, they may also comprise of mobile applications and smart cards exclusively created for PKE.

The car module and the PKE key fob consist of receivers that are connected to each other. The module present in the car transmits signals, and when the key reaches its vicinity and the message is correct, it responds and the door is unlocked.

Today, there are advanced and more secure PKE systems that use a new code every time to avoid the incidences of a relay attack.

Automobiles that include the PKE system also have a keyless start feature, where the owner just needs to push the button in order to start the engine. The presence of these two systems together is often referred to as PEPS or ‘Passive Entry Passive Start.’

There can be several smart keys for a car for different drivers. These may work to adjust the seat, positioning of the mirror, or putting the radio to the desired station.

The first PKE system was produced in 1990 by the German manufacturer Siemens. This system is named ‘Keyless Go’ by Mercedes Benz manufacturers. There are various inventions for the Passive Keyless Entry (PKE) system such as Keyless Access, Comfort Access, Keyless Entry & Start, Kessy, PCC, I-key, Keyless Go, and Smart Entry.

The smart key system is different from the Remote Keyless Entry or RKE. This is because, in RKE, the user is required to press the switch on the remote control to unlock the door; however, there is no need to touch the smart key. As soon as you touch the door handle, the door is unlocked and opens.

The Working of PKE

If your car has a smart key, it will constantly look for it by giving out signals. There are several inbuilt antennae that radiate these signals. It is easier to unlock the car if its smart key is nearby.

The verification process is conducted by at least one or more transponders, and most of the time they operate together for the engine immobilizer. It is imperative that the smart key remains in the vicinity of the car or the signal might need lots of energy and would be at risk of illegal usage.

The cars parked in the parking zone are always looking for the right smart key even if it’s not near.

The Safety Of PKE

The growing need for convenience and advancement in technology gave rise to the PKE system. Regrettably, there are a few loopholes when it comes to the security of the PKE system. So, does that signify that some vehicles are more secure than others?

Well, the answer is no as there are only limited developers of PKE systems. The signals given out by the smart key are received by the car as soon as the smart key is in the vicinity of the car. The car just examines whether the transmitted signal is the right one, and then unlocks.

The pace at which technology conducts the verification process is becoming lengthier; however, that involves many other procedures. You can find videos on search engines regarding these relay attacks.

Although the transponder offers some security, the PKE system has put it to risk. You can check the popular ADAC test to examine this fact.

What is Faraday Cage?

You might not know, but the susceptibility of keyless entry systems let any intruder unlock and take your car.

Did you know these intruders can do it with the help of a ‘signal amplification attack?’ The key fob you considered safe in your home can be at risk of theft. This is because intruders can steal their signal and use it to unlock your car.

These burglars make use of a signal amplifier to unlock the car door, take away your belongings and your car without leaving any evident proof. First, these thieves ‘listen’ to your key signal by following you to the store or lingering outside your home. Then, the burglar transmits or amplifies this signal to a partner who is near the car. This makes your car think your smart key is nearby and it is unlocked immediately.

Once the thieves are in your car, they can drive it just by pushing the start button or taking away your valuables. Car theft is rising day by day and not even smart solutions are enough to stop thieves. Therefore, experts suggest that you keep your smart key in a faraday cage.

A Faraday cage is a type of a metal enclosure that protects your smart key in a way that nobody can access it without your consent. There is no need to store the keys of your vehicle in your freezer; however, you can safeguard them with a faraday cage.

The Features of a Faraday Cage

You can safeguard your vehicles and valuables with the help of a security pouch, an effective Faraday cage. Some of its best features are:

They are portable, flexible, light-weight and you can easily put them in your pocket.
You can get a precise design for vehicle fobs.
They are extremely efficient with a patent-pending design.
They are created from good quality sports nylon on the outside so that it doesn’t get damaged with everyday use.
They have a double layer of German military-grade material for better security.
The branded faraday cages are tested for their efficacy and quality.

Personal Authentication

There are various ways to avoid theft through a relay attack and one is by Personal Authentication, which is an isolated security system. Car owners will initially validate themselves on the smart key with a PIN and will get the code that is displayed on the device.

Another method to avoid the risk of theft is by deactivating the keyless entry system; however, it is not always possible. Car manufacturers should create more secure and expensive entry systems that are tough to crack as compared to other standard systems.

The smart key is still available in a remote control form. Since there are many transponders and transmitters that can be used in the smart key, you will find different varieties of smart keys on the market.

In the near future, we can expect the smart key to be part of the other gadgets we use such as smartwatches and mobiles. There are still controversies going on regarding the security of advanced key systems; however, there is no doubt that they will continue to evolve.

If you lose the smart key, you just get it replaced as you will need to get the device reprogramed. It is imperative that you get in touch with the car manufacturer or key service provider for the replacement. Make sure you work with reputed manufacturers to ensure the security of your vehicle.

Some professionals suggest car owners do the programming themselves. You can perform it with a spare key which you might have initially gotten with the original one. There will be clear instructions in the manual of the car that you can follow to reprogram it. If you can get it done yourself, you can save money, but it is not as easy it sounds. So, if you are concerned about the security of your car, make sure you get it done by professionals.

Smart Key: The Latest Key Technology

There have been several amazing car innovations in the last few years. Advanced car technology has made it possible to introduce such exclusive and secure features into the latest vehicles. These new innovations have enhanced the convenience and style to the next level; however, the security still remains an issue in some cases.

Many of the latest technologies have easily adapted to today’s vehicles so they look more like a requirement than a luxury. Car keys have a new look because of these advanced technologies. A smart key will offer you a plethora of ease and conveniences.

Source: carlock.nl