In recent times, you may have heard a rather unusual piece of advice making the rounds: wrapping your car keys in aluminum foil. While it might sound like a tip straight out of a spy novel, there’s actually some practical reasoning behind it, endorsed by security experts and even the police. This article will explore why this simple trick is becoming increasingly popular and how it can help protect your vehicle from theft.
Understanding the Threat
The main reason behind this advice lies in the technology used in modern car keys. Many car keys now feature keyless entry systems, which use radio frequency identification (RFID) signals to unlock and start cars. However, these convenient features can also be exploited by tech-savvy thieves. Using a device called a relay amplifier, criminals can extend the signal of your key fob from inside your home and unlock your car without ever touching the key.
How Aluminum Foil Helps
Aluminum foil acts as a barrier that blocks the radio waves emitted by your key fob. By wrapping your keys in foil, you can prevent these signals from being intercepted by unauthorized devices. This simple action can thwart thieves’ attempts to amplify your key fob’s signal and gain access to your car.
