Computer glitches in modern vehicles aren’t uncommon. Most of the time, it results in a minor inconvenience—time spent at the dealership or service center getting our vehicle looked at. However, one recent glitch actually allows car thieves to bypass Honda
key fobs, letting them unlock and start the vehicle remotely. It’s a frustrating and alarming error that puts Honda owners at risk—but what’s the full story? We can’t stop car thieves, but we may be able to put a stop to you getting overcharged on your car insurance
premiums. Take a look today when you download our free app; we’re here to help you save money. One Honda key fob glitch could result in nationwide car thefts
According to TechCrunch
, researchers at Star-V Lab security found a significant flaw in Honda’s key fob communication system. The researchers discovered that, by mimicking the authentication codes transmitted between the vehicles and their fobs, a thief could hack your Honda
, replicate the codes and then use them to unlock and start the vehicles, all without ever setting off the alarm. The replication of the authentication codes isn’t as complicated as it sounds. Researchers simply used radio equipment available at electronics stores, listened for the authentication codes sent when the Honda key fob buttons were pressed, and then played them back.
Why is this glitch concerning Honda key fobs even possible?
TechCrunch also points out that if Honda had taken the right precautions, replication of the authentication codes sent from key fobs wouldn’t be possible. But right now, if a Honda key fob has the lock and unlock buttons pressed consecutively, it allows the vehicle to accept previous authentication codes.
Put simply, this means a hacker doesn’t have to keep intercepting signals between the Honda key fob
and the vehicle in order to break in—they just have to have one authentication code. MORE: The 2024 Honda Prologue Will Be Sporting a Unique Look
Is Honda issuing a service recall for their key fob glitch?
Not at present. It’s also worth noting that the current Honda key fob glitch doesn’t allow thieves to drive off with the car, but being able to start and unlock the vehicle certainly increases their chances of stealing the car. The present Honda key fob glitch affects all Honda models presently on the market, and a solution doesn’t seem to be forthcoming from Honda.
Also to be considered is that Honda doesn’t actually believe that the glitch is real, even though it’s been validated by The Drive
. Honda contacted The Drive to let them know that Honda key fobs “would not allow the vulnerability as represented in the report.” MORE: Honda and LG Are Building a Massive Battery Plant, but a Big Question Remains
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