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Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) uses electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects. Just like any other technology, RFID is also vulnerable to physical or electronic attacks.
A hacker can use a special device to rewrite or copy the information stored on an RFID tag. They can use the copied information to create a replica of the original tag or card.
Since RFID is used in a variety of applications including commerce and transportation, it has become a target for many potential attacks.
If you are learning about physical security, then it is recommended to have at least one RFID tool in your pentesting toolkit.
Here’s a summary of the best RFID tools for hacking:
| Best RFID Tools | Link to Product |
|---|---|
| Proxmark3 ID DEV Kit | See details at Amazon |
| Flipper Zero | See details at Amazon |
| Keysy RFID Duplicator | See details at Amazon |
| ESP RFID Tool | See details at Aliexpress |
| LONG RANGE RFID READER / WRITER DL533N XL | See details at Lab401 |
Keep in mind:
1. Only use the RFID tools mentioned in this list on your own devices or the devices you have permission to test.
2. Make sure the use of these tools is not banned in your country. I/TechSphinx shall not be held responsible for your actions.
Best RFID Tools
1. Proxmark3 ID DEV Kit
Proxmark3 is a multi-purpose research and development hardware tool for RFID security analysis. It can sniff, read, analyse and emulate RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags. Proxmark 3 is one of the best devices available on the market when it comes to RFID pentesting.
It is an ideal tool for both enthusiasts and professional pen-testers. Moreover, the device is wireless, powerful and small enough to fit in a pocket.
Over time, there are many versions developed for the Proxmark3. The RDV4.01 version is the latest revision of the Proxmark 3 Platform as of writing this post.
If you want a highly-capable multi-tool for RFID analysis, then Proxmark3 is a must-have device in your RFID pentesting toolkit.
2. Flipper Zero
Flipper Zero is the Swiss army knife that contains multiple tools for pentesting such as RFID, RF, Infrared, HID emulation, GPIO, Hardware debugging, 1-Wire, Bluetooth, Wifi and more.
The best part, everything Flipper Zero has to offer is packed into a small portable box and you can access all its functionality through the included 5-way navigation button and LCD screen.
Although it is an entirely independent device that is ready to use out of the box, you can still connect it to a computer to extend or modify its capabilities according to your needs.
If you want a portable device that can do more than pentesting RFID, then Flipper Zero will be a great addition to your toolkit.
3. Keysy RFID Duplicator
The next on the list is the Keysy RFID Duplicator. As the name suggests it can copy, emulate and clone RFID key cards or Key fobs. It can copy up to 4 (125kHz) RFID Key Fobs or Key Cards.
The 125 kHz keycards are typically used in office buildings, swimming pools, schools, gyms, elevators of condos, parking garages, and apartment complexes that need the keycard to be held less than 10cm from the RFID reader.
One thing to note is that Keysy only duplicates onto Keysy branded rewritable keycards/keyfobs. There are other limitations to what Keysy can do, which keys it can emulate etc. You can check on the product listing page or contact Tiny Labs (Keysy manufaturer) for detailed information.
4. ESP RFID Tool
ESP RFID Tool is a data logger that captures data from a standard Wiegand Interface.
You can use this device to log the credentials for access control systems, RFID card readers, pin pads, magnetic stripe systems, some biometric readers and any other device that utilizes a Wiegand Interface.
The tool also has WiFi capabilities and can be used to set up its access point or connect to an existing network. Thanks to that, you can easily access the log files and other settings through a web interface.
If you want a device to pentest various systems that utilize a Wiegand Interface, then you can go for the ESP RFID tool.
5. LONG RANGE RFID READER / WRITER DL533N XL
The last on the list is the DL533N XL device. It is a long-range LibNFC-compatible RFID Reader/Writer that can read, write, sniff, emulate etc. from a distance of up to 180mm. It is based on the NXP PN533 chipset and supports a wide range of cards.
This device has a slim form factor that allows you to easily conceal it under tables, in backpacks, in briefcases etc. Also, it is compatible with all popular operating systems (Linux, Windows, Mac) and specific Android builds.
If you want a Long range RFID tool for pentesting, then there is no better option than DL533N XL.
Frequently Asked Questions
RFID hacking tools refer to various hardware and software applications designed to exploit vulnerabilities in Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems. These tools are used by security researchers, ethical hackers, and sometimes malicious actors to understand and test the security of RFID systems.
The legality of using RFID tools for hacking depends on the intent and context of their usage. If these tools are employed for security research, authorized penetration testing, or educational purposes, they are generally considered legal. However, using them for unauthorized access to systems, data theft, or any malicious activities is illegal and subject to legal consequences.
Common RFID hacking techniques include RFID signal interception, tag cloning, replay attacks, brute-forcing cryptographic keys, signal jamming, and exploiting weak encryption or authentication mechanisms. These techniques aim to gain unauthorized access to the RFID system, compromise data, or clone RFID tags.
To defend against RFID hacking, organizations should implement robust encryption and authentication protocols, regularly update firmware and software, and conduct security assessments and penetration testing. Additionally, using secure RFID tags with strong encryption and unique identifiers can further enhance security.
Yes, RFID-enabled credit cards and access cards are vulnerable to hacking. Some older RFID implementations lack proper encryption and authentication, making them susceptible to attacks like relay and cloning. However, newer systems often use more robust security measures to mitigate these risks.
Conclusion
This concludes the list of the best RFID tools for hacking. Apart from RFID tools, there are many other wireless hacking hardware tools that will be a great addition to your wireless pentesting toolkit.
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