5 Signs Your Car Key Might Be Cloned (and How to Protect Yourself)

Modern cars make life easier, but with convenience comes new risks. One of the most common questions today is: can your car key fob be hacked? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. While car manufacturers are constantly improving security systems, criminals still manage to find ways around them.

Here are five warning signs that your key fob might have been cloned – and what you can do to stay safe.

Can your car key fob be hacked? – First sign: strange car behaviour

If your car doors sometimes unlock or lock on their own, the interior lights switch on unexpectedly, or the alarm goes off without reason, it could be more than a technical glitch.

When combined with other suspicious signs, this may mean that someone is trying to intercept your fob’s signal.

Which keyless cars are most stolen – Second sign: the riskier models

Statistics show that thieves target certain vehicles more often. Keyless cars are the favourites, with high-end models such as BMW, Range Rover, Mercedes, Ford and VW among the most stolen in the UK.

If you own one of these and notice unfamiliar vehicles or people loitering near your parking spot, take extra care.

How do thieves steal key fob signals – Third sign: unusual interference

Criminals often use relay devices that capture and amplify your fob’s signal. If your keys are left near the front door at home and your car mysteriously unlocks at night, it could be the result of a so-called “relay attack”.

Sometimes you may even notice interference: you need to press the button several times, or the fob’s range suddenly feels much shorter than usual.

How to block key fob signal – Fourth sign: weak or unreliable protection

Many drivers now use RFID pouches or metal boxes to block the signal from their fob. If you find your protective case no longer works properly, that’s a red flag.

Tip: invest in a high-quality, certified signal-blocking pouch. Some people joke about storing keys in the microwave or fridge, but that can damage the electronics. A proper pouch is safer, simpler, and far more effective.

Other suspicious clues

Fresh scratches near the doors, unusual marks on the vehicle, or a sudden change in how your fob interacts with the car may indicate tampering.

Also, be wary if strangers come too close to you in shopping centres or on your driveway with a backpack or bag – relay devices are often concealed this way.

How to protect yourself

1. Keep your keys in RFID-blocking pouches.
2. Park in well-lit, secure locations.
3. Consider adding visible deterrents such as a steering wheel lock.
4. Don’t leave your car key fob near the front door or windows at home.
5. Always investigate any unusual changes in how your car responds.

Your fob is essentially the digital key to your car. And yes, can your car key fob be hacked? Sadly, it can. Statistics also show which keyless cars are most stolen. That’s why it’s vital to understand how do thieves steal key fob signals and take steps to protect yourself.

By learning how to block key fob signal effectively, you can drastically reduce the risk and keep your car secure.