台灣復健醫學會

Car Relay Attack System: Complete Information

Car Relay Attack System: Complete Information

What is a Relay Equipment?

A relay attack device is a dual-unit system that relays the communication between a car key fob and the car. This equipment uses dual units working together to forward communications over long distances.

Relay attack systems are typically utilized by automotive professionals to evaluate weaknesses in keyless entry systems.

How Does a Relay Attack Device Work?

The relay attack operates using two separate units that communicate:

  1. First device is placed near the car key fob (in building)
  2. Unit 2 is located near the target vehicle
  3. Primary unit detects the transmission from the car key
  4. The transmission is sent to second device via wireless connection
  5. Secondary unit broadcasts the code to the automobile
  6. The automobile thinks the remote is nearby and unlocks

Parts of a Relay Equipment

Sending Device

The TX unit is the initial device that captures the transmission from the key fob.

TX specifications:

  • Advanced detection for weak signals
  • 125 kHz reception
  • Small size
  • Internal sensor
  • Wireless operation

RX Unit

The receiving device is the second component that broadcasts the relayed signal to the vehicle.

Receiver features:

  • Signal amplification
  • 315 / 433 MHz transmission
  • Adjustable power
  • Long distance
  • LED display

Variants of Relay Attack Devices

Entry-Level Equipment

A entry-level equipment provides fundamental transmission relay.

Features of standard devices:

  • Basic dual device
  • Basic coverage ( 150-300 feet)
  • Basic interface
  • Fixed frequency
  • Compact form factor
  • Cost-effective investment

Premium Equipment

An advanced relay attack device offers professional functions.automotive repeaters

Advanced features:

  • Extended range ( 100-300 meters)
  • Multi-frequency support
  • Automatic mode
  • Digital encryption
  • Live feedback
  • Low latency (instant forwarding)
  • App control
  • Event recording

Use Cases

Penetration Testing

Relay systems are important devices for penetration testers who test smart key weaknesses.

Expert purposes:

  • Smart key evaluation
  • Vulnerability identification
  • Defense mechanism testing
  • Automotive security audits
  • Forensic analysis

Manufacturer Testing

Automotive companies and tech companies use relay systems to create enhanced defenses against transmission forwarding.

Technical Details of Attack Equipment

Signal Range

Quality attack equipment offer various distances:

  • Entry-level: 150-300 feet
  • Premium: 100-200 meters
  • Commercial distance: 600-1000 + feet

Response Time

Signal delay is essential for effective signal forwarding:

  • Fast relay: under 10 milliseconds
  • Standard latency: 10-50ms
  • Delayed transmission: noticeable delay

Signal Types

Relay attack devices handle different bands:

  • 125 kHz: Key fob transmission
  • 315 MHz: North American standard
  • 433 MHz: RF
  • 868-915 MHz: Modern systems

Battery Specs

Relay attack systems generally require:

  • Battery type: USB powered
  • Runtime: up to 12 hours continuous use
  • Recharge duration: 3-4 hours
  • Sleep duration: up to 2 days

Shopping Tips: How to Buy a Relay Attack Device

Important Factors

Before you purchase relay system, assess these aspects:

  1. Application: Security research
  2. Distance needs: How far the devices will be distant
  3. Band support: Target automobiles you need to evaluate
  4. Delay tolerance: How fast transmission
  5. Price range: Financial allocation
  6. Legal compliance: Confirm regulations

Investment Guide for Relay Systems

The price of relay attack devices varies significantly:

  • Budget models: $ 300-$ 600
  • Professional units: $ 500-$ 1500
  • Premium systems: high-end pricing
  • Industrial grade: $ 3000 +

Where to Purchase Relay System

Authorized Sources

When you invest in attack equipment, choose exclusively legitimate sources:

  • Specialized retailers
  • Licensed resellers
  • Manufacturer direct
  • Industry platforms
  • Academic vendors

Digital Shopping of Relay Systems

Security professionals often prefer to order equipment via web.

Benefits of online shopping:

  • Wide selection
  • Detailed specifications
  • Budget optimization
  • Professional reviews
  • Protected checkout
  • Private packaging
  • Technical support

Regulatory Compliance

Legitimate Uses

Relay attack devices are allowed for legitimate uses:

  • Academic study
  • Automotive manufacturer testing
  • Penetration testing
  • Legal proceedings
  • Training programs
  • Government applications

Critical Legal Warning

LEGAL WARNING: Attack equipment are powerful tools that must be operated responsibly. Criminal misuse can cause serious charges. Exclusively use for legal activities with proper authorization.

Installation and Operation

First Use

Configuring your attack equipment:

  1. Energize all devices
  2. Pair the two devices
  3. Set protocol parameters
  4. Test connection between devices
  5. Position Unit 1 near target key
  6. Position second device near vehicle

Operational Best Practices

For maximum success with your attack equipment:

  • Reduce obstacles between units
  • Ensure direct communication
  • Verify signal strength consistently
  • Locate optimally for maximum range
  • Document all activities
  • Keep authorized use

Testing Methodology

Vulnerability Evaluation

When operating relay attack devices for research:

  1. Secure written consent
  2. Record the setup
  3. Position equipment per procedure
  4. Conduct the relay attack
  5. Capture findings
  6. Evaluate success rate
  7. Document results

Maintenance of Relay System

Regular Maintenance

To guarantee reliable function of your attack equipment:

  • Store all devices well-maintained
  • Upgrade system when available
  • Test synchronization regularly
  • Verify receiver condition
  • Recharge devices frequently
  • House in suitable environment
  • Safeguard from moisture and temperature extremes

Problem Solving

Common Problems

When your relay attack device doesn’t work properly:

  1. No communication: Re-pair the devices
  2. Poor transmission: Reduce separation between units
  3. High latency: Optimize environmental conditions
  4. Unreliable performance: Upgrade system
  5. Quick discharge: Upgrade energy cells
  6. Unsuccessful relay: Confirm target compatibility

Alternatives

Technology Differences

Knowing the differences between relay attack devices and related equipment:

  • Relay Attack Device: Dual device that relays transmissions in live
  • Keyless Repeater: Standalone equipment that boosts signals
  • Code Grabber: Records and logs transmissions for replay

Strengths of Relay Attack Devices

Relay systems deliver specific benefits:

  • Extended range operation
  • Live relay
  • Compatible with advanced security
  • Direct relay needed
  • Improved reliability against advanced security

Security Implications

Protecting Against Relay Attacks

For vehicle owners concerned about safety:

  • Use RF shielding for car keys
  • Enable power-saving on modern fobs
  • Install mechanical security
  • Keep in safe environments
  • Install additional alarms
  • Deactivate keyless entry when parking
  • Monitor manufacturer updates

Vehicle Manufacturer Countermeasures

Current automobiles are using various defenses against transmission forwarding:

  • Movement detection in key fobs
  • ToF verification
  • Advanced RF systems
  • RSSI checking
  • Layered security levels

Technology Evolution

The evolution of relay attack technology promises:

  • Machine learning signal optimization
  • Multi-unit systems
  • Advanced encryption between components
  • Smaller size of devices
  • Longer range (1500 + feet)
  • Instant relay (instantaneous)
  • Universal compatibility
  • Cloud management

Conclusion: Investment Decision a Attack Equipment?

Purchase relay system if you are a professional in:

  • Vehicle protection assessment
  • Penetration testing
  • Legal investigation
  • Scientific analysis
  • Product engineering
  • Military research

The relay system cost reflects the capabilities and quality. Advanced devices with advanced features require greater cost but deliver better performance.

Keep in mind that whether you purchase relay system locally, ethical operation is paramount. These are sophisticated devices designed for security professionals only.

The attack equipment represents one of the most powerful tools for testing keyless entry vulnerabilities. Operated legally by authorized experts, these tools advance car safety by identifying security flaws that car makers can then fix.

Only buy from authorized vendors and confirm you have official approval before deploying attack equipment in any research application.