Keyless Entry and Car Theft

Car theft is increasing and thieves have discovered new ways to get into vehicles. keyless cars being stolen entry is among the most commonly used methods.

The days of thieves broke windows and hotwired cars to steal them. They can now hack into a vehicle's computer systems within minutes.

Relay Attack

Since the introduction of technology called Push-to-Start, millions of drivers have enjoyed the convenience of being able to start their vehicle without having to reach for a key. However, this same convenience can make vehicles vulnerable to theft. The relay attack is a novel technique that thieves use to steal cars in a matter of seconds. This technique uses an instrument to record and amplify the signal through your car's key fob permitting thieves to unlock the car and drive away.

Relay attacks are a variation of an older technique called Man-in the-Middle Attacks. This type of attack can be used in cybersecurity to snoop on communications between two parties and alter it without either party not knowing. In a relay attack, the attacker uses an electronic device that can capture and transmit the signal from the key fob in your car to a second device in the vicinity. This second device is able to open the door and start the engine, thereby taking your vehicle away in a matter of minutes.

Criminals can carry out an attack making use of a low-cost and readily available device to capture the signal from an electronic key fob. Usually, thieves work in pairs, with one person holding the relay amplifier and the other person standing outside close to the house of the victim. The thief swizzles the device towards the victim's home, tricking the car into thinking the key is nearby.

Some experts recommend storing your key fob in a steel container, signal-blocking pouch, or Faraday bag when it is not in use to stop this kind of theft. This is a basic but ineffective method against modern relay devices. A far better option is to invest in a steering wheel lock, which physically blocks the criminal's ability to steer the vehicle once it is stolen car keys.

Many vehicle manufacturers have tried to tackle this problem by introducing features such as secure keyless entry systems that rely on cryptographic techniques and time-sensitive codes to guard against relay attacks. Criminals have developed devices that can thwart these measures. This is why the race is on to find a way to combat relay crime without comprising the convenience of keyless technology.

Hacking

A lot of new cars come with keyless entry systems, which allow drivers to open and start their vehicle without needing an actual button or key. However, these systems can be vulnerable to a new type of theft. Thieves could employ electronic devices to copy the signal from the key fob and send it to a transmitter held by an accomplice who is near to the car. The person who stole the car then unlocks it and is able to drive away. According to AAA, this method is referred to as a relay attack. It can be accomplished within 20-30 seconds.

Most often, thieves will make use of inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals to capture the signal and relay it to a third party. Then, when the victim clicks their key fob to unlock or start the car, the thief can pretend to be the legitimate owner by sending a signal to the car's system, making it believe that a legitimate signal is coming through the fob.

More sophisticated thieves have developed devices that plug into the car's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port that is usually situated under the steering wheel. It allows mechanics to connect to a diagnostic tool. The thief can then download information from the car's computer and create an empty key fob that meets the car's specifications. Almost all vehicles are vulnerable to this kind of hacking.

Some thieves have even used TikTok challenges to teach people how to make inexpensive amplifiers that enhance the signal of a key fob and allow an accomplice to unlock the vehicle from a distance, while it's in the driveway. This has prompted companies such as Kia and Toyota to update their software which block this vulnerability.

Experts suggest keeping your car keys away from your home, and even in the trunk so that thieves have a difficult getting access to the keys. You can also purchase RFID pouches that help protect the signal from unauthorised use. These pouches can be bought for just $10. Some are equipped with metal mesh linings. It is also essential to keep your car's software up-to the latest version, just as you would on your computer and phone.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Cards

The latest car stolen Keyless entry key fobs connect to vehicles using radio signals, which allows owners of the cars to open and start their vehicles without touching keys. However, these new technologies are also increasing the risk of theft. Thieves can capture the signal from a key fob when it is left on a table close to the front door of the home or in a pocket and they are able to duplicate the signal using devices that are similar to handheld gaming consoles, also known as emulators. Once they have it, they can open the car and drive it away in just a few minutes.

Typically, the crooks work in pairs. The crooks typically operate in pairs. One will stand outside of your house with a relay amplifier, and the other one will be carrying a device that captures the signal from a keyfob. The criminals will then amplify the signal until it is strong enough to bypass your car's security system.

Another technique that is popular is blocking the communication between keyfob and vehicle. Thieves do this by using signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. This muddles the signal, stopping it from reaching the car, which stops the lock button from working.

Dealers in the auto industry must be on guard to protect their inventory as thieves get more sophisticated. Dealerships should install high-security perimeter fences with cameras and secure entrances so that thieves cannot drive flatbeds and cars after hours. They should also train employees on proper key handling practices that include locking vehicles securely and placing them in a secure location when they are not being used.

Fortunately, technology is helping to stop car thefts and combat these new thieves. For instance, some car stolen with keys manufacturers are developing key fobs that incorporate active RFID chips with frequency-hopping technology to make it more difficult for thieves to amplify the signal emanating from the key. Furthermore, Faraday cages can be used to stop the transmission of signals from a key fob cars. Other defences include etching the last seven digits of your vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the headlights, windows and mirrors to stop reuse or re-sale of your vehicle.

VIN Theft

While keyless entry is convenient but it also opens up new opportunities for thieves to rob cars. If your car detects the signal that is sent by your remote or wireless key fob, it will open the door and begin the engine. If the signal is not acknowledged, the vehicle will still lock, but it will not start. It is necessary to hold the key to activate the starter.

Even when your car got stolen with keys in it is parked, it is crucial to keep the remote and key fob from being seen. Criminals could use a tiny transmitter device to pick up your signal and hijack it. He can then open your door without removing the ignition or the key.

In some cases, criminals are even capable of swapping a vehicle's VIN and title to hide their involvement in the theft of the vehicle. This practice is known as VIN switching and is currently on increasing. The thieves will usually buy damaged vehicles at auction or from the police department, car stolen Keyless Entry and then change the VIN. They then use the legal VIN of a different make and model to obtain the new title and registration and then sell it to unsuspecting buyers.

The VIN is a popular way to stop theft. Many companies provide kits for this, and in certain places the police department or AAA offers this service for free. It might seem counterintuitive to think that etching will deter thieves. After all, it makes it more difficult for dealers to buy your vehicle. A professional thief will avoid your car due to the fact that they know that etching can be a major obstruction.

The NICB also offers a free VINCheck service online to determine whether your vehicle has been reported as a salvaged or stolen, but not yet recovered. The service is available only on their website and requires the use of a valid VIN. There are also a variety of crime-deterring devices for your car. These include audible as well as visual devices that deter criminals. These include the locking of your steering wheel and alarms, as well as window engraving.