The rapid evolution of technology in car manufacturing is truly remarkable. Just a short while ago, we were amazed by the convenience of Bluetooth, but now it has become an essential part of our daily lives. Gone are the days when internet access was limited to homes and offices, as we can now connect on the go and even charge our phones wirelessly on the dashboard. Keyless entry technology has also eliminated the hassle of fumbling with keys in unfavourable weather conditions. It’s incredible how far we’ve come in such a short period of time.
What Is Keyless Entry?
Keyless car entry eliminates the need for manually unlocking the vehicle with a key, as the car key or fob communicates with the car to unlock it. Gone are the days of struggling to find the key blade and potentially scratching the car in the process. Some keys may require a button press on the handle, but newer cars utilise sensors to recognise the owner approaching, even if the fob is in a pocket or bag.
Although convenient, advancements in keyless entry technology also present new challenges in terms of car theft. As quickly as automotive technology evolves, so do the methods used by criminals to exploit
How To Protect Keyless Entry Cars: The Methods Of Theft
Despite advancements in car technology, car thieves seem to always be one step ahead. As a responsible vehicle owner, it is important to take extra precautions to protect your investment. It is advisable to consider implementing multiple layers of keyless car key protection. So, what should you be on the lookout for and what are the most effective methods to safeguard your keyless.
How Does Car Relay Theft Work?
Recently, criminals have become adept at exploiting the technology behind keyless entry systems, resulting in a phenomenon known as key relay theft. Keyless entry, while convenient, has a vulnerability that thieves have been able to exploit using simple, affordable devices.
These criminals can intercept the signal between in-car sensors and key fobs, allowing them to unlock and start a car without the owner’s knowledge. By using a device near a door or window, they can capture the signal from the key fob and relay it to a receiver near the car, tricking the car into thinking the owner is present. In just seconds, the car can be stolen and driven away without a trace.
As a result, it’s important for homeowners to be aware of this risk and take precautions to protect their vehicles from key relay theft. Placing keys in a secure location away from doors and windows can help prevent criminals from easily accessing and stealing cars with keyless entry
How To Stop Relay Theft
Car, caravan, and motorhome theft is on the rise, despite improvements in vehicle security. The Thatcham Research Centre, funded by car insurance companies, is focused on preventing relay theft and setting stringent criteria for car security products. They are the leading authority in car security standardisation and only approve products that meet their high.
Car Trackers
Car trackers are devices that, when installed in a vehicle, can notify the owner or a central monitoring station if the car is being tampered with or stolen. These tracking devices send real-time signals that allow the vehicle to be located and potentially retrieved, while also aiding in the apprehension of thieves. GPS car trackers are capable of providing tamper warnings and motion alerts.
There are GPS units available to fit various motoring budgets, making it a wise decision to install one in any vehicle. In today’s world, cars are essential for both work and leisure, and are no longer just lifestyle accessories.
Faraday Pouch
The Faraday Pouch is an exceptionally inexpensive way to protect your car key or fob when not in use. Lined with a metallic layer they effectively block the signal from the key so any criminal trying to access that signal outside your home will be thwarted. When the key is not in use, simply pop it in the pouch and pocket it. A metal box will also do the trick but it’s less convenient.
Immobilisers
The key is in the name. An immobiliser is designed to prevent vehicle theft by immobilising the engine or motors in electric cars. While physical units like steering locks are an option, it is more effective to install a hidden electronic device such as the WeTrak Ghost Immobiliser. This device is a valuable tool in the fight against car thieves and relay theft.
While some vehicles may already have immobilisers installed, thieves are likely aware of how to bypass them. However, they may not be aware of a secondary hidden unit, which serves as a secure backup. This is why it is aptly named Ghost.
What Else Can Be Done To Prevent Relay Theft?
Car criminals are a resourceful bunch and keyless entry cars are potentially vulnerable anywhere, even in a public car park in broad daylight. For example, when leaving a vehicle we use a locking sequence, but do we check as we walk away? Thieves can block a locking signal, leaving the car open and any contents vulnerable.
Make sure that, in the case of a button press, the doors are tried and found to be locked. Alternatively, make sure the flashing light signal that indicates locking is seen before turning away.
Which Cars Are The Most Vulnerable?
The easy answer is of course, ‘all of them’. Even if the vehicle is a less expensive model, it doesn’t mean it or its contents are not at risk.
Clearly though, some cars are indeed more targeted and stolen to order. In 2020 the top three places were taken by Range Rover models. Otherwise, it’s the usual suspects of the German premium makes like Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche which are always going to be highly desirable.
Fitting A Car Tracker To Prevent Relay Theft Can Help Keep Your Insurance Premiums Down
This is a legal requirement and it pays to have the most comprehensive cover. Car theft isn’t just a nuisance, it will also inevitably mean that the following year’s premium will go up. That’s why fitting a car tracker and one way or another making sure the vehicle is protected against relay theft will help keep insurers happy and that’s what all motorists want.
