TL;DR
Most security systems can detect cloned fobs, but it depends on the technology used. Systems using rolling codes and unique identifiers are much more secure than older fixed-code systems. This guide explains how to check your system’s vulnerability and what steps you can take to improve fob cloning detection.
Understanding Fob Cloning
Fob cloning involves creating a duplicate fob that mimics the signal of an original. The success of this depends on whether the security system uses:
- Fixed Codes: These are easily copied, making systems vulnerable to simple cloning attacks.
- Rolling Codes: Each time a fob is used, it generates a new unique code. This makes cloning much harder as the cloned fob won’t have access to future codes.
- Unique Identifiers: Systems that store and verify each fob’s individual ID are more secure.
Checking Your System
Here’s how to determine your system’s security level:
- Identify the Manufacturer & Model: Look for a label on the control panel or fob itself.
- Search Online Documentation: Visit the manufacturer’s website and search for documentation related to your model. Specifically, look for information about:
- Code type (fixed vs rolling)
- Whether fobs have unique IDs
- Cloning protection features
- Contact Support: If documentation is unclear, contact the manufacturer’s support team directly. Ask specifically about fob cloning vulnerabilities and detection methods.
Improving Fob Cloning Detection
If your system is vulnerable to cloning, here are steps you can take:
- Upgrade Your System: The most effective solution is to replace your current system with one that uses rolling codes and unique fob identifiers.
- Enable Advanced Features (if available): Some systems have features like:
- Fob Registration/Pairing: Ensure all fobs are properly registered with the control panel. This allows the system to identify unauthorized fobs.
- Tamper Alerts: Configure alerts for any attempts to tamper with the control panel or fob readers.
- Regularly Audit Fob Usage: Review your system’s logs (if available) to identify unusual activity, such as fobs being used at unexpected times or locations.
# Example log entry (may vary by system) 2024-10-27 14:35:00 - Fob ID: ABC1234 - Access Granted - Door: Front - Consider Additional Security Layers: Supplement your fob system with other security measures, such as:
- Keypad Entry: Require a PIN code in addition to the fob.
- Biometric Scanners: Use fingerprint or facial recognition for access control.
- Video Surveillance: Install cameras to monitor entry points and deter unauthorized access.
- Faraday Bags/Pouches: Store spare fobs in Faraday bags or pouches to prevent signal interception and cloning.
Detecting a Cloning Attack
Signs of a potential cloning attack include:
- Unexpected Access Events: Fobs being used when they shouldn’t be.
- System Errors: Unusual errors or warnings related to fob authentication.
- Multiple Accesses with the Same Fob (Simultaneously): This is a strong indicator of cloning, as one fob cannot be in two places at once.