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Car RFID Security System Cracked

jmichaelg writes "The NY Times reports that the security chip in new auto keys has been cracked. A team at Johns Hopkins have found a method to extract the 30 bit crypto key that tells your car that the physical key in the ignition switch is the correct key. Texas Instruments has sold some 150 million security chips that are stored in the car key. The devices are credited with reducing car thefts of some car models by 90%. Stealing a crypto key requires standing next to the victim and broadcasting a series of challenges to the key and capturing the responses. The team claims an iPod-sized device would suffice to steal the crypto key in under a second. They advise wrapping your keys in foil when you're not using them. TI admits the team has cracked their code but denies there's any problem."

8 of 383 comments (clear)

  1. I knew it! by Sensible+Clod · · Score: 5, Funny

    Good thing I always keep my keys wrapped in tinfoil.

    --

    The difference between spam and poop is that you don't have to dig through septic tanks looking for real food. -- Me
    1. Re: I knew it! by Black+Parrot · · Score: 5, Funny


      > Good thing I always keep my keys wrapped in tinfoil.

      I just carry mine under my hat.

      --
      Sheesh, evil *and* a jerk. -- Jade
  2. the good news. by JVert · · Score: 4, Funny

    Folks there is nothing to worry about, nothing to see here-OH MY GOD WHERE IS MY CAR?

  3. You know the world is coming to an end when... by PurpleFloyd · · Score: 4, Funny

    You know the world's coming to an end when a team of security experts from a respected institution advises wrapping your car keys in tinfoil so the Bad Guys can't intercept the secret signal!

    --

    That's it. I'm no longer part of Team Sanity.
  4. Re:30 Bit Key? That's like soooo 1990 by Lehk228 · · Score: 4, Funny

    no that's just stuff that happens randomly when you buy a Saturn.

    --
    Snowden and Manning are heroes.
  5. hey cool by cruel_elevator · · Score: 4, Funny

    First, it was suggested that you wrap your newfangled passports in tin foil. Now it's car keys. I guess it's time for Calvin Klein, Gucci, DKNY and other designers to release their line of tin-foil clothing. Or how about clothing with pockets reinforced with tin foil?

    Wait, that sounds like a profitable idea. /me runs off to patent office.

  6. the old method by snot+whistle · · Score: 5, Funny

    the old method requires you stand next to the person with the key and hit them on the head with a shovel.

    more effective, but not as 1337.

    --
    Where's Robin Hood? We could kinda really use him now.
  7. Re:Start chewing! by riqnevala · · Score: 4, Funny

    Who knew chewing gum could actually provide an additional benefit?

    MacGyver did. :)

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