5 Car Stolen Keyless Entry Tips From The Pros
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Keyless Entry and Car Theft
Car theft is increasing and thieves have discovered new ways to get into vehicles. One of the most common methods is keyless entry.
The days of thieves broke windows and wired cars to steal. Today, they can hack the computer systems of vehicles in minutes.
Relay Attack
Since the introduction to the Push-to Start technology, millions have been able to be capable to start their vehicles without needing to search for a car key. However, this convenience makes vehicles more susceptible to theft. The relay attack is a novel technique that thieves use to steal cars within seconds. This method makes use of an amplifier to record and amplify the signal sent by your car's keyfob. It allows thieves to unlock the vehicle and drive off.
The relay attack is actually a variation of an older technique referred to as Man-in the-Middle attacks. This kind of attack can be employed in cybersecurity to intercept communication between two entities and alter it without the other not knowing. In the case of a relay attack, the attacker uses a device to capture the signal from your car's key fob, then transmits the signal to a second device that is close by. This second device will open the door and begin the engine of your vehicle in just a few just a few seconds.
Criminals can perform a relay attack using a cheap and readily available device to pick up the signal from an electronic key fob. Typically, thieves work in pairs, with one person holding the relay amplifier, and the other one standing close to the house of the victim. The thief will then wave the device in front of the victim's house and trick the car into thinking the key is within reach and allows it to open and start.
Some experts suggest storing your key fob in a steel container, signal-blocking pouch or Faraday bag whenever not in use to stop this type of theft. This is a simple but ineffective method against modern relay devices. The best option is to purchase the use of a steering wheel lock which physically blocks the criminal's ability to steer the vehicle once it's stolen.
Many car manufacturers have tried to resolve this issue by introducing features like secure keyless entry systems which use cryptographic methods with time-sensitive codes to protect against relay attacks. However, criminals have been able to create devices that defy these measures. This is why the race is on to discover a way to stop criminals who use relays without compromising the convenient nature of technology that is keyless.
Hacking
Many new cars are equipped with keyless entry systems, that allow drivers to open and start their vehicle without the need of an actual key or button. However, these systems could be susceptible to a different type of theft. The thieves can make use of electronic devices that replicate the signal of the key fob and then transmit it to a accomplice who holds an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The thief then unlocks the vehicle and takes off. According to AAA the method is known as relay attack. It can be completed in 20 to 30 second.
Most often, thieves will employ inexpensive devices that imitate wireless key fob signals to capture the signal and relay it to a third party. When the victim presses their key fob to lock or start the car, the thief can pretend to be the owner of the car by transmitting a response to the car's system that makes it believe that a legitimate signal is being sent through the fob.
More sophisticated thieves have created devices that plug into a car's On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port that is usually located under the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect an instrument for diagnostics. The thief downloads the information from the computer of the car and creates a blank key fob matching the specifications of the car. This type of hacking is possible with almost all vehicles.
Some click here thieves have even made use of TikTok challenges to teach people how to make inexpensive amplifiers that increase the signal from the key fob, and permit an accomplice to unlock the car from a distance, while it's parked on the driveway. This has led to manufacturers like Kia to release software updates that mitigate the vulnerability.
Experts recommend that you keep your car keys in a trunk or place further away from home to ensure that thieves can't easily access the keys. You can also buy RFID pouches to help shield the signal from unauthorized use. These pouches can be bought for less than $10. Some come with metal mesh linings. Similar to your phone and computer it is essential to keep the software on your car up-to-date.
Radio Frequency Identification Cards
The most recent car key fobs make use of radio signals to communicate with the vehicle which allows owners to unlock their cars and even start them without having to touch the key. Unfortunately, these new technologies also increase the possibility of theft. The signal from a keyfob could be recorded if the fob is placed on a desk near the front door or in the wallet. It is then possible to copy it using simple devices called emulators, that are the size of handheld consoles. They can then unlock the car in just a few minutes and drive away.
The crooks typically work in pairs. The crooks usually work in pairs. One will be outside your home with a relay amplifier and the other one will be carrying a device that records the signal of a keyfob. The criminals will then amplify the signal to ensure it is strong enough to evade your car's security system.
Another popular tactic is to block communication between the key fob and the car. The thieves employ signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a keyfob. The signal is blocked and prevents it from being picked up by the car. The lock button won't work.
Auto dealers must be vigilant to protect their inventory as thieves become more sophisticated. Dealerships need to install high-security perimeter fences with cameras and secure entrances, so that thieves can't drive flatbeds on cars at night. They must also train their employees on the proper handling of keys, which includes locking cars securely and keeping keys in a safe place when not when not in use.
Fortunately, technology is helping to stop car thefts and combat these new thieves. For instance, some automobile manufacturers are creating key fobs with active RFID chips with frequency-hopping technology to make it harder for thieves to amplify the signal from the key. In addition, Faraday cages can be used to prevent the transmission of signals from a key fob the car. Other defences include engraving the last seven digits from your vehicle Identification Number (VIN), on the headlights, windows and mirrors to prevent the resale and reuse of your vehicle.
Theft of VIN
Keyless entry is practical, but it opens up new possibilities for thieves to steal vehicles. Your car will open the doors and start its engine when it recognizes the signal sent by your wireless remote or key fob. However, if the signal isn't recognized the car will be locked, but it will not start. This is because you need to have the key in your hand to press an appropriate button on the fob in order to start the starter.
Even if your car is parked, it's important to keep the remote and key fob in a safe place. A criminal can hijack your signal using a small transmitter. Then, he can unlock your door and drive off without ever touching the actual key or ignition.
Criminals can even swap out the VIN and the title of a stolen vehicle to hide their involvement. This practice, known as VIN-switching, is currently on increasing. Typically, criminals purchase a damaged vehicle through auctions or police departments, and then change the VIN. They then use the legal VIN of a different brand and model to get an updated registration and title, and then sell it to unsuspecting buyers.
A popular deterrent to theft is to have your VIN etched into your vehicle's glass. Many companies offer kits for this, and in some areas, the police department or AAA provides this service at no cost. It might seem odd to think that etching will deter thieves. After all it makes it more difficult for dealers to buy your vehicle. A professional thief would avoid your vehicle because they know that etching can be a major stumbling-block.
The NICB provides a free VINCheck online service to determine if your vehicle has been reported stolen or salvaged but not yet recovered. The service is available only on their website and requires the use of a valid VIN. In addition, a large assortment of security products available for your vehicle that include audible and visible devices that serve as a deterrent for criminals. These include steering wheel locks and alarms as well as window scratching.