KIA Ecuador Keyless Entry Systems Vulnerability Faces Major Theft Threat

A critical security flaw has been uncovered in the keyless entry systems (KES) widely used in KIA vehicles across Ecuador, exposing thousands of cars to a heightened risk of theft.

The vulnerability, identified by independent hardware security researcher Danilo Erazo, centers on the use of outdated “learning code” technology in aftermarket key fobs homologated and distributed by KIA Ecuador for models including the Kia Soluto, Rio, and Picanto from 2022 to 2025.

How the Vulnerability Works

Unlike modern rolling code systems, which change the unlock code with every use to prevent cloning, learning code key fobs transmit a fixed code each time they are used.

This static signal can be easily intercepted by attackers using inexpensive radio equipment. Once captured, the signal can be replayed or cloned, granting unauthorized access to the vehicle without any trace.