Hackers managed to unlock a Tesla Model 3 in less than a minute using the famous relay antenna technique. The electric car manufacturer is still working on ways to counter this method.
In an article published on May 22 by the American media Wired, ethical hackers prove that it is still possible to steal a Tesla, with a few technological gadgets that can be found for around a hundred euros on the web. Gogobyte, a Chinese automotive cybersecurity company, provided journalists with a video in which experts stage the unlocking of the car.
Hackers use the famous relay attack technique: a first criminal will send signals to the key with an object – it can be a simple telephone – which will be behind the front door of the home, for example, or even in the owner’s pocket. The second individual will position himself next to the targeted car with a relay antenna to amplify and capture the signals emitted by the key. The Tesla will thus receive the waves and authorize the opening of the doors.
In the video provided by the company, cyber experts take less than a minute to open a Tesla Model 3. The market leader in electric vehicles had however updated its system to prevent theft with this technique. Tesla reacted after a few cases recorded in the United States.
In 2020, the group owned by Elon Musk even wrote to US authorities that its system could measure the distance from a key fob or smartphone to a car much more precisely, preventing a vehicle from being stolen by attacks by relay.
Tesla is still looking to update its vehicles
Jun Li, founder of GoGoByte, says successful hacking of latest Model 3 means Tesla owners should always think to activate PIN code unlocking on their vehicle. “ This is a warning to the general public: Activating Tesla’s latest update does not mean your vehicle will not be stolen. With relay attacks, it’s still like old times for thieves » he affirms.
Tesla also responded to the researchers, telling them that the distance measurements with the key are still being improved.
Note that GPS tracking of the Tesla can still discourage criminals from attacking these cars. Even if once again, there are methods to jam the signal, taking the time to hit the road or steal just a few spare parts.
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