Hardware and software considerations in secure
The now ubiquitous passive vehicle immobilizers have played a major role
in improving car security. With their sophisticated technology, they
have helped to reduce car theft significantly. This article provides
interesting insights into design and security aspects of passive
immobilizers.
For years, consumers have come to rely on the
convenience and added security that a passive vehicle immobilizer system
offers. These systems consist of a key fob and a base station, mounted
in the vehicle. They work together to determine if the driver is
authorized to start the vehicle. Of equal or greater importance is the
system's ability to prevent unauthorized sources from using the vehicle.
While top level functionality of a vehicle immobilizer is simple to
describe, the underlying technology enabling it is intriguing and
sophisticated.
This feature explores both the hardware and
software aspects of vehicle immobilizer systems as well as offer
noteworthy comments on design and security considerations. Specifics
covered include communication technology, system interfaces, field
generation and modulation, authentication, and countermeasures.
