Can you copy access cards and key fobs? (2024)

The RFID market is projected to grow to USD 35.6 billion by 2030, with a forecasted CAGR of 11.9% during the period. The significance of these figures is that technological advancements have had a major impact on the security industry.

However, all new technology is vulnerable to abuse and hacking by some individuals once it is made available to the public. RFID technology has rapidly spread across various sectors, with 125kHz cards being used to access gates secured by electric locks.

Since 125kHz proximity access cards are read-only, they have little or no encryption, allowing them to broadcast their data to any nearby reader. This poses a significant threat to the security of sensitive information and products at businesses that deal with such material. Additionally, anyone with the necessary technology can steal or duplicate these cards and fobs.

3 Steps to copy a RFID Card:

Before getting into the steps, you should buy a RFID copier which is available online for just $15

1. Hold the access card from which you have to copy information together with the RFID copier
2. Press “Read” button on the RFID copier and wait for the beep sound
3. Now hold the new or a different access card along with the RFID cloner and press “Write” button and wait for the beep sound

Now access you will be able to access the door with the new access card or fob

The use of key fobs or access cards for access control has been a common practice in the commercial sector for years. The technology behind it is simple, where the RFID code on the fob communicates with the reader and authenticates the device, allowing access to locked doors or gates.

Fobs are a popular alternative to keycards due to their smaller size and convenience, but they also come with a risk of duplication. Making a duplicate fob is easier than many people realize and can be done online or at a kiosk, though not at a hardware store like a standard key. This has become a significant security concern for companies using fobs as part of their access control system.

Duplicating a 125kHz RFID card or fob is cheap and easy, as the necessary gadgets can be purchased for a few dollars online. If the original fob is still functioning, duplicating it is not challenging. In some cases, people may choose to make a copy elsewhere due to the low cost rather than requesting one from management.

However, some key fobs and access cards may be more challenging or time-consuming to duplicate compared to others.

Key fobs restrict access to secured facilities like parking garages, business buildings, and apartment complexes. In addition, security is jeopardized when people have duplicate keys and share them with others.

Access control systems cannot identify the difference between a duplicated fob and the original device, so if there are multiple copies of the same fob, it is hard to determine who exactly is entering the property. It can be difficult for property managers to detect key duplication since it may be impossible to discern the copied key from the originally assigned key.

Some of the ways in which duplication of access cards and key fobs can jeopardize security are:

Unauthorized Access: When access cards and key fobs are duplicated, unauthorized individuals may gain access to secure areas. This can lead to theft, vandalism, or other security breaches.

Lack of Control: Duplicated access cards and key fobs can make it difficult to track who has entered and exited a building or facility. This makes it challenging to identify and address security incidents.

Reduced Trust: When duplicated access cards and key fobs are used, it can cause employees, customers, and other stakeholders to question the security of a building or facility. This can lead to reduced trust and negative perceptions of the organization.

Compliance Issues: Many industries are subject to strict regulations and standards for security. Duplication of access cards and key fobs can cause organizations to fall out of compliance, resulting in fines and other penalties.

Increased Costs: The duplication of access cards and key fobs can result in increased costs, such as the need to replace cards and fobs, the installation of new security systems, and increase security personnel.

Lack of accountability: When access cards and key fobs are duplicated, it becomes difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions. In the event of a security breach or incident, it may be challenging to identify the person responsible.

Reduced effectiveness of security measures: Access cards and key fobs are often part of a larger security system, which may include CCTV cameras, alarms, and other measures. When these cards and fobs are duplicated, the effectiveness of the entire security system may be compromised.

Reputation damage: Security breaches can damage an organization’s reputation, leading to decreased customer loyalty and loss of business. Duplicated access cards and key fobs can make it easier for criminals to target an organization, further damaging its reputation.

Increased vulnerability to cyber attacks: Many access cards and key fobs use technology that can be vulnerable to hacking and cyber attacks. When these cards and fobs are duplicated, it may be easier for hackers to gain access to sensitive information or systems.

By minimizing the risk of duplication, organizations can ensure the safety and security of their buildings and facilities, maintain trust, and maintain compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

Training employees on the importance of security and the dangers of duplicating access cards and key fobs is crucial. This type of training can help employees understand the risks associated with unauthorized duplication and encourage them to take steps to minimize those risks.

Duplicating access cards and key fobs is a serious security concern that can put your organization at risk. An intruder in possession of a cloned card or a fob can be dangerous to the security of a workplace and its employees. By implementing biometric authentication, upgrading your access control system, and other suggested measured, you can minimize the security risks associated with duplication and ensure the safety and security of your organization.

Can an access card be copied?

Yes, access cards can be copied if someone has the right equipment and knowledge. However, it is generally illegal to do so without permission from the owner or the organization responsible for the access control system.

Can you clone key fobs?

Yes, it is possible to clone key fobs, although the process can vary depending on the type of key fob and the technology used.

Can I copy an RFID access card?

Yes, it is possible to copy an RFID access card, but it may require specialized equipment