Security experts: Remotes are hackable on many vehicles

A group of computer security experts say they figured out how to hack the keyless entry systems used on millions of cars, meaning that thieves could in theory break and steal items without leaving a broken window.

The experts say that remote entry systems on millions of cars made by Volkswagen since 1995 can be cloned to permit unauthorized access to the car’s interior.

The same experts say another system used by other brands including Ford, General Motor’s Opel and Chevrolet and Renault can also be defeated.

In a paper to be delivered Friday at the Usenix security conference in Austin, Texas, the authors say a thief could use commonly available equipment to intercept entry codes as they are transmitted by radio frequency, and then use that information to clone another remote so the car could be opened.

Volkswagen said its latest models such as the Golf, Tiguan, Touran and Passat were not affected. It said it was having a “constructive exchange” with the experts aimed at improving security technology.

“The bar for theft prevention is constantly being raised, but ultimately there is no comprehensive guarantee for security,” the company said in a statement.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

This story was originally published August 12, 2016 at 6:20 PM with the headline "Security experts: Remotes are hackable on many vehicles."