How to Protect Your Car from Relay Attacks Using RFID-Blocking Pouches

Car thieves are using relay attacks to steal keyless-entry cars. Learn how RFID-blocking pouches can help protect your vehicle from theft.

Thieves are constantly coming up with new methods to steal cars, but car owners are fighting back with innovative protection techniques. One popular method among owners is keeping their key fobs in RFID-blocking pouches to prevent vehicle theft.

A prevalent auto theft method targeting keyless-entry vehicles is known as a «relay attack.» In this scenario, one thief stands by the target car with a signal repeater, while another approaches the front door with a long wire antenna attached to a device that «relays» the key fob’s signal. If the key fob is near the door and unprotected, the accomplice can unlock the car door and start the engine.

To trick a keyless entry car into thinking the key fob is nearby, the RFID signal from the key fob must be relayed. The simplest way to protect your car is to disable keyless entry: if you have to press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, a relay attack won’t work.

However, not all automakers allow you to disable this feature. As a result, some vehicle owners are relocating their key fobs and spares away from the front door. Since each generation of RFID relays is more advanced, many drivers are now using RFID-blocking technology to safeguard their vehicles.

There are several ways to weaken or block an RFID signal. Keeping your keys in a metal container, such as a metal box, an empty can, aluminum foil, or even a foil chip bag, can prevent car theft. However, purpose-built RFID-blocking pouches are affordable, with many available for $5-10, leading many owners to invest in them.

To protect your keyless-entry car, it’s a good idea to keep your key fob in an RFID-blocking pouch. Remember to protect any spare key fobs in the same way.