Wrapping car keys in foil is done to block or significantly weaken the radio frequency signals emitted by modern key fobs. This prevents potential thieves from intercepting or amplifying the signal to access or steal the car remotely. Key points:
- Aluminum foil acts as a Faraday cage, blocking electromagnetic signals from escaping the key fob.
- Proper wrapping in multiple layers with no gaps can effectively stop the signal from traveling far.
- This reduces the risk of relay attacks, where thieves use devices to capture and relay the key fob's signal to unlock and start the car without the key physically present.
- It is a low-cost, flexible, and reversible method to protect car keys from signal theft, though specially designed pouches may offer better protection.
- Wrapping in foil decreases the range at which the key fob can communicate with the car, requiring the user to be closer to the vehicle to unlock or start it.
In summary, people wrap their car keys in foil to enhance security against modern car theft methods that exploit the wireless signals from key fobs, making it harder for thieves to steal the car remotely.
