But Tesla’s credit card keys, like many digital keys stored in cell phones, don’t work via radio. Instead, they rely on a different protocol called Near Field Communication or NFC. Those keys had previously been seen as more secure, since their range is so limited and their handshakes with cars are more complex.
Advertisement
Now, researchers seem to have cracked the code. By reverse-engineering the communications between a Tesla Model Y and its credit card key, they were able to properly execute a range-extending relay attack against the crossover. While this specific use case focuses on Tesla, it’s a proof of concept — NFC handshakes can, and eventually will, be reverse-engineered.
As with RF relay attacks, the defense is simple: cut off access. Plenty of commercial wallets, cards, and bags will act like a faraday cage for your Tesla key, restricting its communications from any nearby ne’er-do-wells. And maybe think twice about embedding that NFC tag in your arm — it could pose a legitimate security risk for you car.
For GREAT deals on a new or used Harley check out Reno Harley Davidson TODAY!