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UCSD Finds Karr Bluetooth Flaw Unlocking 2 Million Cars

7/21/2026

38 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

UC San Diego researchers discovered a Karr flaw that can unlock doors and disable ignition.
The flaw, present in Karr hardware in 2 million U.S. vehicles, leaves the Bluetooth radio on for 10 minutes after shutdown, widening attack window.
Over 3,000 dealers install the alarms before sale and may keep them even if buyers decline payment.
Karr issued a free-app firmware update after the flaw was reported, but the patch required 18 months.

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Story summary

UC San Diego researchers discovered a Karr flaw that can unlock doors and disable ignition.
The flaw, present in Karr hardware in 2 million U.S. vehicles, leaves the Bluetooth radio on for 10 minutes after shutdown, widening attack window.
Over 3,000 dealers install the alarms before sale and may keep them even if buyers decline payment.
Karr issued a free-app firmware update after the flaw was reported, but the patch required 18 months.