Your car key is talking—and thieves are listening. Modern key fobs emit continuous low-frequency signals that criminals can intercept using devices easily bought online. In a “relay attack,” one device picks up your key’s signal from inside your home, while another broadcasts it to your car, allowing thieves to drive off in minutes.
The fix is surprisingly low-tech: aluminum foil. By wrapping your key fob, you create a Faraday cage that blocks electromagnetic signals. For a more durable solution, Faraday pouches (available for less than $20 online) offer the same protection in a discreet package.
Experts like Moshe Shlisel, CEO of GuardKnox Cyber Technologies, compare the key fob’s signal to a song on repeat. “If thieves can replay that song, they can steal your car,” he explains.
Older adults are prime targets, as they often park in driveways and keep keys near entry points. A recent case in Phoenix saw a couple’s SUV stolen without a trace—just a $40 signal booster used by the thieves.
Until automakers implement more secure key fobs, a layer of foil or a Faraday pouch is your easiest defense. Pair this with parking in well-lit areas or using a steering wheel lock for added security. Sometimes, the simplest solutions outsmart the smartest criminals.
