Low Frequency Zones
The message contained in the beacon signals varies based on each transmitter zone.
For example, the message could vary based on if the zone was:
- Inside the vehicle or outside the vehicle
- The Drive side or the passenger side or the loadspace.
This capability allows the smart key to send specific answers, triggering actions such as opening the passenger door or starting the engine.
A common security threat consists of relaying the messages exchanged between the vehicle and the smart key over long distances. This message range is indefinite, depending on the technology used. The attack is instigated by intercepting the beacon signal from the Low Frequency (LF) antenna in the vehicle to the smart key.
The equipment used to intercept the messages, exchanged between the vehicle and the smart key. The equipment is used to gain illegal entry to the vehicle and activate the passive start system.