The security of modern vehicles is often taken for granted, but recent research has highlighted vulnerabilities in keyless entry systems that could leave millions of cars susceptible to theft. A device known as RollJam, developed by security researcher Samy Kamkar, exposes a critical weakness related to Car Fob Frequency Scanners and the technology they interact with. This article delves into how this device works and what it means for your car’s security.
The Mechanics of Keyless Entry Hacking: How Car Fob Frequency Scanners are Exploited
Modern car key fobs communicate with vehicles using radio frequencies. When you press a button on your fob, it sends a unique code to your car to unlock the doors or start the engine. However, the system isn’t as secure as it seems. RollJam exploits a vulnerability in how some car fob frequency scanners and car security systems handle these codes.
RollJam operates by acting as an intermediary between your key fob and your car. When you attempt to unlock your car, RollJam jams the signal, preventing it from reaching your vehicle. Simultaneously, it intercepts and records the code sent by your key fob. Thinking the first signal was lost, you might press the unlock button again. RollJam again jams this second signal, but this time, it sends the first recorded code to your car, unlocking it. Crucially, it saves the second code.
A modern car key fob emitting a radio frequency signal to unlock a vehicle, illustrating the technology targeted by car fob frequency scanners.
This leaves the attacker with a valid, unused code. Because many older systems use rolling codes that simply increment sequentially without expiring, the attacker now possesses the next valid unlock code for your car. As Kamkar explains, “It will always do the same thing, and always have the latest code… And then I can come at night or whenever and break in.” This method effectively bypasses the intended security of car fob frequency scanners used in these vulnerable systems.
Which Vehicles are at Risk from Car Fob Frequency Scanner Exploits?
Kamkar’s testing revealed that a range of popular vehicle brands are susceptible to this type of attack. These include:
- Nissan
- Cadillac
- Ford
- Toyota
- Lotus
- Volkswagen
- Chrysler
Furthermore, the vulnerability extends beyond cars to other devices utilizing similar car fob frequency scanner technology, such as:
- Cobra and Viper alarm systems
- Genie and Liftmaster garage door openers
It’s estimated that millions of vehicles and garage doors could be vulnerable due to their reliance on chips like the Keeloq system from Microchip and Hisec chips from Texas Instruments. These chips, while widely used, have demonstrated weaknesses when faced with sophisticated attacks like RollJam.
Industry Response and the Path to Enhanced Car Security
In response to Kamkar’s findings, companies have offered varying reactions. Cadillac acknowledged the RollJam method as “well-known” to their cybersecurity experts, suggesting it primarily affects older models. They indicated that newer Cadillac models have transitioned to more secure systems. Other companies like Liftmaster and Volkswagen declined to comment, while Viper stated they were investigating the claims.
Logos of car manufacturers mentioned as potentially vulnerable to car fob frequency scanner exploits, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
While Cadillac suggests newer models are safer, Kamkar points to a solution already available: Dual Keeloq chips. These updated chips incorporate expiring codes, which significantly mitigate the RollJam attack. Codes generated by these systems become invalid after a short period, rendering the intercepted code useless to an attacker after a brief window.
The Urgency for Upgrades: Moving Beyond Vulnerable Car Fob Frequency Scanners
Kamkar’s intention with RollJam is to highlight the need for automotive and garage door companies to upgrade their security systems. He draws a parallel to online security, noting that two-factor authentication systems routinely use expiring codes for enhanced protection. The fact that millions of vehicles rely on systems with non-expiring rolling codes is a significant security gap.
RollJam serves as a stark demonstration of this vulnerability, acting as a “gauntlet thrown down” to manufacturers. As Kamkar himself admits, his own car is susceptible to this attack, underscoring the widespread nature of the problem and the need for immediate action to enhance the security of car fob frequency scanners and the systems they protect. The message is clear: upgrading to systems with expiring codes is not just advisable, it’s essential to safeguard vehicles from these increasingly sophisticated threats.
