If you’ve ever wondered whether your key fob is constantly sending out a signal, you’re not alone. Many people search for answers to this question, especially as concerns grow around privacy, signal theft, and electromagnetic interference. Here’s what you need to know.
Do Key Fobs Emit a Signal?
Yes, most key fobs do emit a signal—but not all the time.
Key fobs use radio frequency identification (RFID) or remote keyless entry (RKE) technology. They contain a small radio transmitter that sends a signal to your vehicle or building access system when a button is pressed—or in some cases, when you’re simply nearby.
There are generally two types of key fobs:
- Active Fobs (Proximity Fobs): These emit a low-power signal continuously or periodically, allowing for keyless entry when you approach the car or door. Think of them as being “always ready” to communicate.
- Passive Fobs (Button-Press Fobs): These only emit a signal when you press a button to unlock or lock something. They’re not constantly broadcasting a signal.
So, Are Fobs Emitting All the Time?
Only proximity-based (active) fobs emit a signal regularly, and even then, the signal is sent in short intervals rather than nonstop. Passive fobs stay silent unless you activate them.
The idea that your fob is constantly blasting a signal is a bit of a myth—but for proximity fobs, they do wake up and send out bursts of signal often enough to trigger automatic unlocking when you’re close.
Why Does This Matter?
People are concerned about fobs emitting signals for a few reasons:
- Security: Signal theft, also called relay attacks, is when thieves use devices to catch and amplify your fob’s signal to gain access to your vehicle or building.
- Privacy: Some people don’t like the idea of anything on them constantly sending out a signal.
- Interference: In rare cases, people wonder if a fob could interfere with other electronic devices or vice versa.
How to Protect Your Key Fob
If you’re worried about your fob’s signal being picked up by unauthorized devices, a simple and effective solution is an RFID-blocking sleeve or case, like the Faradai Key Fob Protector, available through our MiniFob and FobToronto stores.
You can also check out these related posts:
How to Protect Your Key Fob from Theft
Does a Magnet Affect a Key Fob? (Spoiler: It Doesn’t)
Final Tip: Do Key Fobs Emit a Signal?
If you’re carrying a proximity fob and want to prevent it from constantly pinging its signal, placing it inside a Faraday pouch or protective case when not in use can help. It’s a small investment that protects against big headaches.
Need a new key fob or a backup copy? Come visit us at MiniFob or FobToronto headquarters. We copy fobs quickly, securely, and with a lifetime guarantee.
Stay protected. Stay informed.
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