Why leave your car keys in the microwave?
Gone are the traditional key rings hanging right next to the front door or the porcelain pocket on the coffee table in the hall. Now it is fashionable to keep your car keys in the microwave. At first glance this may seem strange and yet there is a very particular reason that explains this gesture. We tell you everything.
What is more unexpected than opening the microwave and finding your car keys inside? However, this is now a commonplace. At first glance you might think that it was a mistake of distraction on the part of the owner or a secret hiding place. Well not at all, not only is it a completely voluntary gesture but above all it is very important to do it! Let’s see why.
Why keep your car keys in the microwave?
à Not all keys are suitable for being put in the microwave. In fact, the keys that are frequently found in this oven are latest-generation “hands free” electronic keys that work on vehicles equipped with the Keyless system. This allows the doors to be opened and closed and the car to be started without contact, without having to insert the key into the lock. The key or card is actually a remote control that contains a transponder that is automatically identified by the car as soon as you are nearby. If this is very practical and makes our lives easier by avoiding having to search for the keys everywhere, emptying our bags to find them or putting down our shopping bags when we are full…
On the other hand, there are disadvantages such as the involuntary opening of the car doors when passing by, but above all theft. And yes, the Keyless system is easy to hack… There is a well-known burglary technique that consists of using an amplifier that allows the signal emitted by the key to be extended for over 100 m. When you approach your home with this device, the signal from your key will then be carried to the vehicle parked on the street and the door will automatically unlock. All the thief will have to do is press the Start button to start and drive away with your car!
And what about the microwave in all this? Well, this is where it comes in. Thanks to the materials it is made of, it has the ability to block the waves and therefore prevent a potential amplifier from reaching your keys. It thus plays the role of an anti-theft device and a safe, in fact the refrigerator can do the same, but humidity and electronic components of the keys do not mix well. Keep in mind, however, that this technique is not 100% reliable and that there are safer methods.
Car thief – source: spm
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Car thief – source: spm – Source: spm
How to effectively protect your car keys
As you may have understood, you have to be very careful with the latest generation keys because in case of loss or hacking the consequences are serious. Because although it may seem paradoxical, the technology present in recent cars makes them easier to steal. Important to know: if your vehicle is stolen without breaking in, as in the case in question, you will not be reimbursed by your car insurance.
It is therefore better to equip yourself with an anti-RFID Faraday box or pouch, designed to block the waves. Make sure you have one for the keys you take out and for the spare key that stays at home. You can never be too careful! Your keys will be safe and impossible to hack.
Protect your car keys – source: spm
You are now warned to avoid falling victim to these discreet thefts that are in full recrudescence, which occur on the street at any time of the day without attracting attention and which are a nightmare for motorists.