PayPal Security Key: What's Inside?

These small key fobs that produced a 6-digit random number were used by some PayPal/eBay customers about 15 years ago to help protect their accounts. They have been replaced with a 2-stage verification system using SMS methods. Mine no longer displays anything. With no obvious way to get inside I crack it open to take a look.

[@vwestlife]

I had a later version of one of these that was shaped like a credit card. Just like you, I never used it. The random number generator has to be synchronized to the exact time and date to be valid, so that's why these no longer work once the battery goes dead, even if you replace it.

[@garyiverson]

Ha! I just found mine tonight and found your video on search. You just saved me some time, thanks!

[@shellcummings1645]

Hey Mr. Conner
I have the same General Electric portable TV/Radio as you, please tell me where I can purchase that analog antenna you used in the video so that I may enjoy the television channels.
Thanks in advance
Shell

[@wallace_n_gromit3180]

I have the same exact item that worked for years on paypal up to just last Christmas. Tried to use it today and the display never came on. after many many years of very rare use it's finally dead. for old times sake was looking into learning how to replace the battery, but now see that even if you get it to come on, but not being able to time synchronize it, makes it useless.

[@marycasey8226]

I have this with a dead battery. Don't even know how to replace the battery... or what battery I need.

[@TheBuffaloEstate]

We just got offered one of these things at work last week for two factor authentication, or we could opt for an app on our personal cellphones.