In today’s tech-driven era, vehicle security methods have evolved significantly such as Keyless entry systems. As we adopt these new technologies for better vehicle protection and convenience, car thieves also find new ways to exploit this technology. Both modern vehicles and today’s thieves have adapted to the digital world. To effectively counteract car theft, we must first understand these modern theft techniques. This article discusses the current methods used by car thieves and gives guidelines on vehicle protection.
The Rise of Keyless Car Theft
Keyless car thefts are the most common type of theft that car thieves are involved in.
Keyless entries are now standard for most modern vehicles, allowing access and ignition through electronic means instead of mechanical keys. These vehicles rely on radio signals emitted from digital keys or fobs to unlock and start. However, while this shift from traditional keys to digital methods provides convenience for drivers, it has also led to an uptick in keyless theft incidents. Thieves, using advanced technology, can manipulate these systems, making it easier for them to gain unauthorized access.
Signal Relaying and Their Implications
The way the keyless mechanism works is quite simple. A digital key, whether it’s an RFID card, a fob, or a smartphone, emits a short-range signal. When near the car, this signal allows the user to open the doors by simply touching the handle. Thieves exploit this by using relay devices. One thief positions a device near a home or the key owner to capture its signal. A second thief, near the car, then uses this signal to unlock it. The vehicle thinks the genuine key is nearby, which can also allow starting the engine. Once inside, thieves can potentially program a new key.
The Threat of Signal Interference
Another trick involves jamming the signal emitted when car owners attempt to lock their vehicles. The signal between the key fob and the car is interfered with by a robber who is lurking close by with a jamming device. Owners’ attempts to secure the automobile are interrupted when they click the lock button, leaving it unlocked. Cars are left open to theft by unwary owners who mistakenly believe they have locked their cars.
Risks from Diagnostic Ports
Every car comes with a standard diagnostic port, typically found in the front footwell. Skilled criminals can connect devices to this port to access the vehicle’s software. They then create a blank key fob, which can start the car and unlock doors. Using easily available online equipment, this process can take roughly 14 seconds and can cost as little as $1.
How to Protect Your Car from Keyless Theft
According to Locksmiths Locator, the 24 hour locksmith for cars, there are several measures you can take that can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of theft, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and secure.
Smart Parking Choices
Parking strategies, often overlooked, can greatly enhance car security. The environment and location where you park can affect its risk. Parking in a garage, for instance, offers extra protection, shielding the car from theft methods like relay attacks and hiding it from thieves. If a garage isn’t an option, parking in brightly lit areas is advisable. Thieves prefer low visibility, but well-lit spots, be it by streetlights or security lights, make their activities more conspicuous and risky.
Leveraging Conventional Locks
Even in the digital age, there are good reasons in sticking to tried-and-tested physical locks. Steering wheel locks, for example, aren’t just functional; their mere presence can ward off thieves. Similarly, gear shift locks ensure that even after gaining entry, driving the car remains a challenge for thieves.
FOB Protectors: A Shield Against Relay Attacks
FOB protectors, acting like Faraday cages, block relay attacks by sealing the key fob’s signal. Although effective, they are not invincible, especially if thieves employ advanced tools.
Consider Advanced Vehicle Trackers
Vehicle trackers have become indispensable tools in enhancing security. Most of these devices are equipped to promptly alert owners if their vehicle undergoes unexpected movements or disturbances. The integration of GPS technology allows for the real-time tracking of a vehicle’s location in the event of theft. Whether you opt for a premium tracker with a suite of features or a more budget-friendly option, the added layer of protection it provides can be substantial.
Final Thoughts
The tools we use and the challenges we confront develop together as technology advances rapidly. Safeguarding our cars is a constant struggle because today’s car thieves use advanced techniques to take advantage of these vulnerabilities. But we can protect our valuable possessions from these theft strategies with instruction and preemptive efforts. With the increase in car thefts, more and more people are turning to car locksmith services for added security and swift responses during emergencies. Should you ever find yourself in an unfortunate event involving your car, remember that timely intervention can make all the difference.
