Car Key Fob and RFID Authentication Against Relay Attacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current car security systems using key fobs are vulnerable to unauthorized access through relay attacks, where criminals intercept and relay signals between the key fob and the car, allowing unauthorized operation.
Innovation Solution
A car security system incorporating a key fob with a converter tab and Bluetooth technology, along with a car transceiver system featuring primary, secondary, and tertiary transceivers, and an RFID security card, which requires encrypted Bluetooth signals and proximity verification to operate the car, enhancing security by limiting signal range and adding an additional authentication method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional key fob system is used, then the car can be operated conveniently, but the system is vulnerable to relay attacks allowing unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The key fob system is segmented into two separate authentication components: a key fob for wireless communication and an RFID security card for proximity verification. The car's transceiver system is similarly segmented into a primary transceiver and an RFID transceiver. This segmentation ensures that both components must be present and functional for unauthorized access to occur, significantly enhancing security against relay attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID security card acts as an intermediary authentication element between the user and the car's ignition system. The system requires verification from both the key fob and the RFID card through separate transceivers before enabling engine operation. This intermediary mechanism prevents unauthorized access even if one authentication method is compromised.
2Reliability
If Bluetooth technology with encrypted signals is implemented, then security against relay attacks is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different authentication modes: Bluetooth wireless communication for key fob operation and RFID proximity verification for security card operation. The car's control system actively manages which authentication method is required based on the operational context, providing flexible security that adapts to different usage scenarios while maintaining robust protection against relay attacks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system significantly reduces unauthorized access by requiring verified Bluetooth signals and proximity authentication, ensuring secure locking, unlocking, and engine operation, even if the key fob is stolen or lost, and can be retrofitted into existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The key fob 10 automatically transmits a radio wave signal using the fob antenna 13 which is received by the car transceiver system 18
Implementation Method 2
The tab 40 and tab antenna 17 uses the Bluetooth standard to transmit and receive signals
Implementation Method 3
The car transceiver system 18 is provided with a tertiary transceiver 28 and tab antenna 17 which can detect and interrogate passive RFID circuits
Data Source
AI summary
The object of the present invention is to provide a convenient means for accessing a car or other automobile, and operation of the engine and other controlled functions, while making it more difficult for criminals to gain access to the car. A car security system comprises a key fob, a car transceiver system, and a security card RFID. The key fob comprises a fob PCB having a fob antenna, and a converter tab which has tab circuitry and an antenna.