Enhancing Vehicle Security with Smart, Secure BLE Tags

Semphos Ltd. partnered with CodeMonkey Studios, a Wakefied(UK)-based leader in GPS and tracking software services. Known for their multidisciplinary team of software architects and expertise in telematics solutions, CodeMonkey Studios delivers innovative services to customers globally. They sought an advanced solution to strengthen the security of their car tracking systems.

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Secure Asset Tracking

Enhancing Vehicle Security with Smart, Secure BLE Tags

This case study demonstrates how SEMPHOS enhanced vehicle security by developing smart, secure BLE tags, offering advanced tracking and protection against unauthorized access.

Challenge

CodeMonkey Studios needed a BLE tag to provide an additional layer of security for their existing car tracking systems. The tag needed to broadcast a secure, One-Time Password (OTP) generated every second, ensuring that the car engine would only start when the authenticated tag was in close proximity. This device required ultra-low-power consumption, cryptographic capability, and a robust design suitable for everyday use.

Solution

Semphos provided a comprehensive, custom solution that met and exceeded the project requirements. The key features included:

  • Custom PCB Design:Developed an ultra-low-power BLE tag that performed SHA1 cryptographic operations to generate OTPs every second, ensuring secure and reliable broadcasts.
  • Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Engineered the tag to operate on a single CR2450 coin cell for over a year, optimizing energy efficiency without compromising performance.
  • GATT Server Interface: Implemented an on-demand BLE GATT server interface, enabling seamless configuration and management of the tag.
  • Tear Drop-Shaped Casing Design: Designed an in-house, ergonomic, tear drop-shaped casing that was:
    • IP65 Rated: Water and dust resistant, providing reliable operation in various environments.
    • Shockproof and Durable: Built with robustness equivalent to that of a car key, ensuring long-term reliability for daily handling.
  • Enhanced Security Integration: Added a unique, spoof-proof layer of security through OTP-based authentication. The BLE tag ensured that only the correct tag in proximity could start the car engine, preventing unauthorized access and deterring potential thefts.
  • Outcome

    The custom BLE tag developed by Semphos equipped CodeMonkey Studios with an innovative, first-of-its-kind security enhancement for car tracking systems in the UK. The OTP-based technology added a strong, spoof-resistant layer of authentication, ensuring reliable vehicle operation only when the authorized tag was detected. The tear drop-shaped, IP65-rated, shockproof design ensured the device was both user-friendly and resilient for everyday use, significantly improving overall vehicle security.

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