[RhoXS]

Although they did not specifically address BMWs, last night NBC news had an item about electronic devices that can quickly and effectively clone a key fob by simply being in the near vicinity of a fob used for keyless entry. It is just necessary for the bad guy to simply briefly walk near someone that just parked their car. The devices then can be used to effortlessly steal the associated car.

Does anyone know how secure the latest (e.g 2016 & 2017) vehicles are from this practice or are the latest BMW keyless entry systems vulnerable to this attack?

I am not addressing the issue from a few years ago associated with plugging directly into the OBDII port.

[Tjalle]

I have tried to get "full" INFO about this, but so far, I have failed.

It seem to be a fact that signals from key fobs, can be stolen and then reproduced. Unclear what cars, but there are indications that all cars are at risk.

I have comfort system, where a signal triggered by movement at handle - regardless of whom does it, triggers a signal from vehicle, and if transponder answers, unlocks doors and enables start of vehicle.

Even if thief can trigger signal from vehicle, he does not get respons from transponder. He might get the transponder signal if close to vehicle when I operate, but that is a much weaker signal than from key fob.

Theoretically he could steal my car signal by touching handle and then amplify it and send it towards me to get response signal from transponder at close range - but that seem to be a bit overkill.

[SleekX3]

Is it advised to install aftermarket alarms because of this?

[Peter_R]

Have a read of this!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-38195281

[Tjalle]

Sleek, I believe you are safe in Honolulu.

Note, primarily they are after key fobs - NOT passive transponders (comfort opening), which has much shorter range and is harder to steal.

I also believe my car is safe in the garage - and on an island.