CUYAHOGA COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) – The ‘Kia boys’ are at it again. Last summer 19 Investigator Kelly Kennedy showed us how the crooks are using social media to show off their crimes. Now they’re using new technology that makes stealing cars even easier.
All they’re using is a tiny handheld device that can steal the signal when you use your key fob to unlock your car allowing the thieves to unlock your car later and it only takes a few seconds to work.
Cyber security expert Paul Sems with Trustedsec knew exactly what the device was and he even had one.
“It’s a scary time that we live in,” said Sems.
Sems said the devices hit the market about four years ago.
“It’s not too surprising that they’re already using them for these types of reasons,” Sems explained. “When they came out these devices were actually banned by certain countries, and they were like hey we’re gonna have import restrictions and not allow them, but the reality is if someone really wants to make one of these they can make these with quote on quote off the shelf parts.”
They’re legal in the United States.
“It’s the same thing with like a lock picking kit. If you’re a locksmith you’re allowed to buy locksmithing tools, if you’re a private citizen you’re allowed to buy lock-smithing tools as soon as you use that device in the execution of a crime it now becomes a criminal tool.”
For someone to steal your signal they have to be within about 30 feet of you when you unlock your car with your key fob.
“It’s literally an FM radio signal or an AM radio signal,” Sems said. “It’s just at a specific frequency and there’s known frequencies remotes work at. So, it’s kind of like pressing an old school tape recorder, listening to whatever was just recorded, rewinding the tape, and hitting play.”
Sems says if your key fob is acting up. It could be a sign that someone is trying to steal your signal.
“The automakers need to do more to provide higher levels of encryption,” Suggested Sems. “Spend a few more dollars to make sure that they have a better encryption system. There’s known vulnerabilities to them, and people are taking advantage of them.”
The people most at risk are Kia owners and people with some cars made before 2009. There’s not much you can do to prevent it besides being aware of your surroundings when unlocking your car.
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