Keyless Entry and Car Theft

The number of car burglaries is rising and thieves are discovering new ways to gain access to vehicles. keyless car stolen entry is among the most commonly used methods.

The days of stealing cars through breaking windows and wiring them gone. They are now able to hack the computer systems of vehicles in a matter of minutes.

Relay Attack

Since the introduction to the Push-to Start technology, millions have enjoyed the convenience to be able to start their cars without needing to search for a car key. Unfortunately, the same convenience can make vehicles vulnerable to theft. The relay attack is a novel method that thieves can employ to steal cars in a matter of seconds. This method uses an amplifier to amplify and capture the signal transmitted by the key fob of your car. It allows thieves to unlock the my car key was stolen and then drive away.

Relay attacks are a variant of an older technique called Man-in the-Middle Attacks. This type of attack can be employed in cybersecurity to intercept communication between two parties and alter it without not knowing. In the scenario of a relay attack, the attacker uses a device to capture the signal from the key fob in your car and then transmits that signal to a different device that is close by. This second device is able to open the door and start the engine, effectively stealing your vehicle in seconds.

Criminals can conduct a relay attack making use of a low-cost and readily accessible device to detect the signal from an electronic key fob. Most often, thieves operate in pairs. One person holds the relay amplifier while the other is outside in front of the victim's home. The thief simply wave the device in the front of the house of the victim and tricks the car into thinking that the key is in range and allows it to unlock and start.

Some experts recommend storing your key fob in a metallic container, signal-blocking pouch or Faraday bag when not in use to prevent this kind of theft. However it is a straightforward solution that has been proved to not work against modern relay devices. A steering wheel lock is a much superior option, since it physically prevents the thief from steering the vehicle after it has been stolen car key what to do.

Many vehicle manufacturers have tried to address this problem by introducing features such as secure keyless entry systems that rely on cryptographic methods and time-sensitive codes to guard against relay attacks. Criminals have developed devices that are able to defeat these measures. In the end, the race is on to find a solution to criminals who use relays without compromising the convenient nature of technology that is keyless.

Hacking

Many new cars are equipped with keyless entry systems which allow drivers to open and start their car without the need for a physical button or key. These systems are vulnerable to a new type of theft. The thieves may use electronic devices that copy the signal of the key fob, and transmit it what to do if your car keys are stolen an accomplice who holds an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The thief is then able to unlock the vehicle and drive off. According to AAA, this method is referred to as relay attack. It can be completed within 20-30 seconds.

Most often, thieves will make use of inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals to collect the signal and transmit it to an accomplice. The thief can then pretend to be the owner of the car when the victim presses the key fob to begin or close the vehicle. They do this by sending a message that appears to the car's computer as an authentic signal.

The more sophisticated thieves have developed devices that can plug into the On-Board Diagnostics port (OBD), which is usually located under the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect diagnostic tools. The criminal then downloads data 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 thieves have even made use of TikTok challenges to teach people how to make inexpensive amplifiers that enhance the signal from a key fob and allow an accomplice to unlock the vehicle from a distance, while it's in the driveway. This has led to manufacturers like Kia to release software updates that mitigate the vulnerability.

Experts suggest keeping your car keys away from home, and even in the trunk, so thieves have a tough getting access to them. You can also invest in RFID pouches that help to protect the signal and discourage unauthorised use. Some of these pouches feature metal mesh linings and are available on the low end for around $10. It is also essential to keep your car's software up-to date, just as you would with your smartphone and computer.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Cards

The most recent car key fobs connect to vehicles using radio signals, which allows owners of cars to unlock and start their cars without touching the key. However, these new technologies are also increasing the possibility of theft. The signal from a keyfob's sensor can be recorded if the fob is left on a table near the front door or in a wallet. They can then clone it with simple devices called emulators, that are the size of handheld consoles. They can then open the car in minutes and drive off.

Typically, crooks work in pairs. The crooks usually work in pairs. One of them will be outside your home equipped with a relay amplifier and the other one will be carrying a device that receives the signal from a keyfob. The thieves can then amplify the signal until it becomes strong enough to bypass the security systems inside your car.

Another popular tactic involves simply jamming the communication between the key fob and the vehicle. The thieves do this using signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. This confuses the signal, preventing it from being interpreted by the car, which stops the lock button from functioning.

Auto dealers must be vigilant to safeguard their inventory as thieves become more sophisticated. Dealerships should install high-security perimeter fences with cameras and secure entrances so that thieves cannot drive flatbeds and cars at night. They should also train their employees on the proper handling of keys, including locking cars securely and storing keys in a safe place when not when not in use.

Fortunately, technology is helping to stop car thefts and combat the new thieves. For instance, certain automobile manufacturers are creating key fobs that use active RFID chips that incorporate frequency-hopping technology to make it more difficult for thieves to amplify the signal from the key. Faraday cages are another way to block signals from a keyfob to the car. Other defenses include engraving the last seven digits of your vehicle Identification Number (VIN), on the headlights, windows and mirrors to prevent the resale or reuse of your vehicle.

VIN Theft

While keyless entry is great for convenience, it also creates new opportunities for thieves to steal vehicles. Your car will open the doors and start its engine when it detects the signal transmitted by your wireless remote or key fob. However, if the signal isn't detected, your car will still lock but won't start. It is necessary to hold the key to turn on the starter.

This is the reason it's crucial to keep your key fob and remote out of view, even when your car is stationed. Criminals can steal your signal with a tiny transmitter. Then, he can open your door without touching the ignition or key.

In some cases criminals may be able to swap out the vehicle's VIN and title to hide their involvement in the stolen car key replacement vehicle. This practice, also known as VIN-switching, is on increasing. The thieves will usually buy damaged vehicles at an auction or from the police department and change the VIN. They then use the legal VIN of a different brand and model to get the new registration and title, and then sell it to unsuspecting buyers.

A popular method of deterring theft is to have your VIN inscribed into the windshield of your car. There are a number of companies that provide kits to do this and in certain areas, the police department or AAA provides this service for no cost. It might seem counterintuitive to think that etching will discourage thieves. After all, it makes it more difficult for dealers to purchase your car. A professional thief will avoid your car due to the fact that they know that etching is a major obstruction.

The NICB also offers a no-cost online VINCheck service to check whether your vehicle is reported as salvaged or stolen and is not yet recovered. The service requires an active VIN to conduct a search and is accessible on their website. There are also a variety of security equipment that can deter criminals in your car. These include audible and visual devices that deter criminals. Some of them include steering wheel locks, alarms and window etching.