TECH TALK

Technology meant to make our lives easier doesn’t always meet that need

Did you know, for instance, that your key fob could let a thief steal your car? Copying code from vehicle fobs is called a “relay attack.” The tech makes it so the thief doesn’t need to get their hands on your keys. In many cases, thieves can break into or steal your car from outside your home. They can copy the signal emitted by your fob to create their own key or amplify your signal to gain access to the car.

Beyond the vehicle risk, what’s scary for consumers is the lack of transparency. The concern is that vulnerabilities like this aren’t often publicized. Think about how long it takes companies to admit to data breaches. Uber took a year to admit to its security breach in 2016, and they aren’t the only ones.

There is good news. There are low-tech, inexpensive ways to protect yourself. You can block the signal your fob emits by wrapping it in aluminum foil when on the go. When you get home, place your keys in a coffee can.

If you’d like something that’s more convenient and attractive, there are options. Retired FBI cyber security expert Holly Hubert suggests something called a Faraday bag. These bags are designed to block signals to and from cell phones, keys, and RFID chips in banking cards. To test if the foil or faraday blocker works, try starting or unlocking your vehicle with them in place.

Faraday bags are available on Amazon, or just Google “Faraday bag” for a list of sellers.

Have a tech issue or question you need help with? Email me at katie.lexchron@gmail.com