Keyless Entry and Car Theft

Car theft is on the rise, and thieves have found new ways to get into vehicles. Keyless entry is one of the most common methods.

The days of thieves broke windows and wired cars to steal them. They are now able to 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 able to start their vehicles without needing to look for the car keys. However, this convenience can make vehicles more vulnerable. Particularly the past, thieves have been able to utilize a technique that is called the relay attack to steal cars in seconds. This method makes use of an amplifier to amplify and capture the signal generated by the car got stolen with keys in it's keyfob. It allows thieves to unlock your car and drive off.

Relay attacks are a variation on an older technique called Man-in-the-Middle Attacks. This type of attack is employed in cybersecurity to alter and intercept the communication between two entities without either party being aware of it. In a relay attack, the attacker employs an electronic device to record and transmit the signal from the fob of the key in your car to a device nearby. The second device is able to unlock the door and start your car's engine in minutes.

To carry out an attack via relay the criminals require a cheap, readily available device that can pick up and amplify the signal coming from your key fob. Usually, thieves will work in pairs. One person will hold the amplifier for relay while another is outside, near the victim's home. The thief swizzles the device in the direction of the victim's home, tricking the car into thinking the key is in close proximity.

To prevent this type theft, some experts suggest that you store your key fob whenever not being used in a metal container or pouch. But it is a straightforward solution that has been proved to not work against modern relay devices. A better alternative is to invest in an ignition lock for the steering wheel, that physically blocks the thief's ability to steer the vehicle once it's taken.

Many vehicle manufacturers have tried to tackle this issue by introducing features like secure keyless entry systems that use cryptographic methods and time-sensitive codes in order to protect against relay attacks. Criminals have created devices that are able to defeat these measures. The race is now on to find a solution to the problem of relay crime that does not hinder the ease of keyless technology.

Hacking

Many new cars are equipped with keyless entry systems, which allow drivers to open and start their car without needing an actual button or key. These systems are susceptible to a new type of theft. The thieves may employ electronic devices that copy the signal from the key fob, and transmit it to an accomplice holding a transmitter close to the vehicle. The thief is then able to unlock the car and drive away. According to AAA this method is referred to as a relay attack. It can be completed in 20 to 30 second.

Often, thieves can use inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals in order to capture the signal and relay it to a third party. When the victim clicks their key fob to lock or open the vehicle, the thief could pretend to be the legitimate owner by sending 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 developed devices that can be plugged into a car stolen with keys in it progressive's On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port which is typically located under the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect to a diagnostic tool. The criminal then downloads data from the computer in the car and creates a blank key fob matching the specifications of the car. This kind of hacking can be done on almost all vehicles.

Some thieves have used TikTok challenges as a way to teach people to make cheap amplifiers that increase the signal from the key fob, making it possible for an accomplice to open the door when it is parked in the driveway. This technique has prompted manufacturers like Kia and car stolen keyless entry Toyota to release software updates which stop this vulnerability.

Experts suggest keeping your car keys further away from your home, and even in the trunk, so that thieves have a tough getting access to them. You can also purchase RFID pouches that shield the signal and deter unauthorized use. Some of these pouches feature metal mesh linings and can be purchased at a low cost of around $10. It's also important to keep your Car stolen keyless entry's software current and up to current, just like you would on your smartphone and computer.

Radio Frequency Identification Cards

The latest car key fobs connect to vehicles using radio signals, which allows owners of the cars to unlock and start their cars without touching a key. However, these new technologies also increase the risk of theft. Thieves can capture the signal from a key fob if it is left on a table close to the front door of the home or in a pocket and they can copy the signal with simple devices that are the size of handheld gaming consoles called emulators. They can then open the car in minutes and drive off.

The crooks typically operate in pairs. One will be in front of your house, holding a relay amplifier and the other one will hold the device that collects the signal from a key fob. The thieves will then increase the signal until it is strong enough to bypass your car's security systems.

Another popular tactic is to block communication between the key fob and the car. The thieves how do keyless cars get stolen this using signal jammers which emit the same radio frequency as the key fob. This jams the signal and prevents it from being picked up by the car. The lock button will not work.

As thieves become more sophisticated in their tactics and techniques, dealers must be vigilant in protecting their inventory. Dealerships should install high-security perimeter fencing, with cameras and a secure entrance to ensure that thieves aren't able to drive on flatbeds with vehicles after hours. They should also educate their employees on proper handling of keys, including locking cars securely and storing keys in a safe place when not in use.

Fortunately, technology is working to stop these new thieves and to prevent car thefts. Some car manufacturers are working on key fobs that have active RFID chips and frequency-hopping technology, which makes it harder for thieves to amplify the signal of the keys. Faraday cages are a different way to prevent signals from a keyfob to the vehicle. Other defences include etching the last seven digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the headlights, windows and mirrors to prevent the sale or reuse of your vehicle.

VIN Theft

Keyless entry is convenient, but it also opens up new opportunities for thieves to take vehicles. If your my car keys were stolen detects the signal that is sent by your wireless remote or key fob, it will unlock the door and begin the engine. However, if the signal isn't detected the car will be locked, but it will not start. It is necessary to hold the key to turn on the starter.

Even when your vehicle is parked, it is essential to keep your remote and key fob from being seen. A criminal can hijack your signal with a tiny transmitter. Then, he is able to unlock your door and drive off without ever having to touch the actual key or ignition.

In some instances criminals are capable of swapping out the vehicle's VIN and title to hide their involvement in the stolen vehicle. This is known as VIN switching and is on increasing. The thieves typically purchase a damaged vehicle at an auction or from the police department, and then alter the VIN. They then take a valid VIN from an alternative model and make an attempt to get a new registration and title, and then sell the car to unsuspecting buyers.

A popular deterrent to theft is to have your VIN etched into the windshield of your car. There are a number of firms that offer kits to do this and in some locations the police department or AAA provides this service for no cost. It may seem odd to think that etching will deter thieves. In the end it makes it more difficult for dealers to purchase your vehicle. A professional thief will avoid your car because they are aware that etching is a significant obstacle to their pursuit.

The NICB also offers a free VINCheck online service that will determine whether your vehicle has been reported as salvaged or stolen car with keys left in it, but not yet recovered. The service is only available on their website and requires a valid VIN. In addition, a large assortment of security products available for your vehicle, including audible and visible devices that serve as a deterrent to criminals. These include alarms and locks for the steering wheel and window scratching.