10 Car Stolen Keyless Entry-Friendly Habits To Be Healthy
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Keyless Entry and Car Theft
The number of vehicle thefts is increasing, and thieves are finding new ways to gain access to vehicles. Keyless entry is among the most commonly used methods.
Gone are the days when thieves broke windows and wired cars to steal them. They can now hack into a vehicle's computer systems within 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 reach for the car keys. However, this same convenience makes vehicles more vulnerable to theft. Particularly thieves have been able to use a new technique called the relay attack to steal cars within seconds. This method makes use of a device to record and amplify the signal by your car's key fob, allowing thieves to unlock and drive away.
Relay attacks are a variation of an older technique called Man-in-the-Middle Attacks. This kind of attack is utilized in cybersecurity to disrupt and alter the communications between two entities without either party being aware of it. In a relay attack the attacker employs an electronic device that can capture and transmit the signal from the fob of the key in your car to a second device in the vicinity. The second device is able to open the door and start the engine, effectively stealing your vehicle in seconds.
Criminals can perform a relay attack by making use of a low-cost and readily accessible device to detect the signal from an electronic key fob. Usually, thieves work in pairs, with one holding the relay amplifier and the other standing near the home of the victim. The thief waves the device in the direction of the victim's home, tricking the car into thinking the key is close by.
To stop this type of theft, experts suggest that you keep your key fob when not being used in a metal container or pouch. However it is a straightforward solution that has been proven to be ineffective 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 after it's stolen.
Many vehicle manufacturers have attempted to tackle this issue by introducing features like secure keyless entry systems that use cryptographic techniques and time-sensitive codes to guard against relay attacks. However criminals have managed to develop devices that defeat these measures. This is why the race is on to find a way to combat criminals who use relays without compromising the convenient nature of keyless technology.
Hacking
A lot of new cars come with keyless entry systems which let drivers start and open their vehicle without needing an actual key or button. These systems are susceptible to a new type of theft. The thieves may use electronic devices that copy the signal from the key fob, and transmit it to an accomplice holding an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The person who stole the car then unlocks it and takes off. This is referred to as relay attack and can be done in 20 to 30 seconds, according to AAA.
Most often, thieves will employ inexpensive devices that imitate wireless key fob signals to capture the signal and relay it to a accomplice. 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 response to the car's system that makes it believe that a legitimate signal is coming through the fob.
More sophisticated thieves have created devices that plug into a car's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port that is usually situated under the steering wheel and allows mechanics to connect to a diagnostic tool. The thief downloads the data from the computer in the car and creates an empty key fob that is compatible with the car's specifications. Most vehicles are susceptible to this kind of hacking.
Some thieves have even made use of TikTok challenges to teach people how to create inexpensive amplifiers that increase the signal from a key fob and allow an accomplice to unlock the car from a distance while it's parked on the driveway. This method has led companies like Kia to issue software updates that eliminate the vulnerability.
Experts suggest that you store your car keys in a trunk or a place further away from home to ensure that thieves can't easily access the keys. You can also invest in RFID pouches to protect the signal and discourage the use of your keys in a non-approved way. They can be purchased for less than $10. Some come with metal mesh linings. It's also important to keep your car's software up to date, just as you would on your computer and phone.
Radio Frequency Identification Cards
The latest car key fobs make use of radio signals to communicate with the vehicle which allows owners to unlock their cars here and even start them without having to touch a key. However, these advanced technologies also increase 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. It is then possible to copy it using simple devices, known as emulators, which are the size of handheld consoles. From there, they can open the car and drive it away in minutes.
The crooks typically operate in pairs. The crooks typically work in pairs. One will be outside of your house with a relay amplifier and the other one will be carrying a device that captures a signal from the keyfob. The thieves will then amplify the signal to make it strong enough to be able to bypass security systems inside your car.
Another method of securing key fobs is by blocking the communication between keyfob and vehicle. Thieves accomplish this by using signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. This muddles the signal, preventing it from being interpreted by the car, thereby preventing the lock button from functioning.
As thieves become more sophisticated in their techniques and techniques, dealers must be vigilant in protecting their inventory. Dealerships must install high-security perimeter fencing with cameras and a secure entrance so that thieves can't drive on flatbeds with vehicles after hours. They should also train their employees on the proper handling of keys, which includes locking vehicles securely and storing keys in a safe place when not in use.
Fortunately, technology is working to stop these new thieves and prevent car thefts. For instance, certain car makers are developing key fobs with active RFID chips with frequency-hopping technology to make it harder for thieves to amplify the signal from the key. Faraday cages are a different way to block signals from a keyfob's signal to the car. Other options include engraving the last seven digits from your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), on the windows, headlights, and mirrors in order to prevent the resale or reuse of your vehicle.
Theft of VIN
Keyless entry is useful, but it also provides new opportunities for thieves to steal cars. If your car recognizes a signal sent from your remote or wireless key fob, it will unlock the door and begin the engine. However, if the signal isn't recognised by your car, it will be locked, but it will not start. This is due to the fact that you have to hold the key in your palm to press an appropriate button on the fob in order to activate the starter.
Even when your vehicle is parked, it is important to keep the remote and key fob hidden. Criminals could use a tiny transmitter device to detect your signal and hijack it. Then, he can open your door without touching the ignition or the key.
Criminals can even swap out the VIN and title of a stolen car to conceal their involvement. This technique, referred to as VIN-switching, is currently on increasing. The thieves usually purchase a damaged vehicle at an auction or from the police department, and then change the VIN. They then make use of an authentic VIN from another model and an attempt to get a new title and registration, and then sell the car to unwitting buyers.
The VIN is a very popular method to stop theft. There are several companies that provide kits to do this and in some areas, the police department or AAA offers this service for no cost. It seems counterintuitive that etching could deter thieves, as it makes your car more difficult to sell to chop shops and other dealers. However, a professional thief knows that etching will be an important stumbling block and will probably deter them from stealing your vehicle.
The NICB also offers a free VINCheck online service that will determine whether your vehicle is reported as salvaged or stolen, but not yet recovered. The service requires an authentic VIN to perform a search and is available through their website. In addition, a large assortment of security products available for your car, including audible and visible devices that serve as a deterrent to criminals. These include steering wheel locks and alarms, as well as window scratching.