How To Determine If You're All Set To Car Stolen Keyless Entry

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Keyless Entry and Car Theft

Car theft is increasing and thieves have discovered new ways to gain access to vehicles. One of the most well-known methods is keyless entry.

There is no longer a time when thieves broke windows and wired vehicles to steal. They can now hack into the computer systems of a vehicle in minutes.

Relay Attack

Since the introduction to the Push-to Start technology, millions have been able to be capable to start their cars without having to search for the car keys. However, this convenience can make vehicles more vulnerable to theft. In particular, thieves have been able employ a new method known as the relay attack to steal cars in a matter of seconds. This method uses an instrument to capture and amplify the signal by your car's key fob which allows thieves to unlock your car and drive away.

The relay attack is actually a variant of an older method known as Man-in the-Middle attacks. This type of attack is utilized in cybersecurity to disrupt and alter the communications between two entities without either party being aware of it. 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 the signal to a second device that is nearby. This second device will open the door and begin your car's engine in minutes.

To carry out a relay attack criminals need only a cheap, readily available device that is able to pick up and amplify the signal emanating from your key fob. Usually, thieves will work in pairs. One person will hold the relay amplifier while the other is outside in front of the victim’s house. The thief swizzles the device in the direction of the home of the victim, and then tricks the car into believing that the key is nearby.

Some experts suggest storing your key fob in a metal container, signal-blocking pouch or Faraday bag whenever not in use to prevent this kind 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 thief's ability to steer the vehicle once it's stolen.

Many vehicle manufacturers have attempted to address this issue by introducing features like secure keyless entry systems, which use cryptographic methods and time-sensitive codes in order to protect against relay attacks. Criminals have devised devices that can thwart these measures. The race is on to find a solution to the problem of relay crime that does not hinder the ease of technology that does not require keys.

Hacking

Many new cars are equipped with keyless entry systems, which allow drivers to start and open their vehicle without the need for a physical button or key. These systems are vulnerable to a new type of theft. The thieves can employ electronic devices that copy the signal from the key fob, and then transmit it to a accomplice holding an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The thief then has the ability to unlock the car and then drive away. This method is called relay attack and can be completed within 20 to 30 seconds, according to AAA.

Thieves often employ cheap devices that mimic the wireless key fob signal to record it and send it to a partner. When the victim clicks their key fob to lock or open the car, the criminal can pretend to be the owner of the car by transmitting a response to the car's system that makes it believe that a genuine signal is being sent from the fob.

The more sophisticated thieves have designed devices that connect to the On-Board Diagnostics port (OBD) which is located usually under the steering wheel. This port permits mechanics to connect diagnostic tools. The thief can then download data from the car's computer and create a blank key fob that meets the car's specifications. This kind of hacking is possible on nearly all vehicles.

Some criminals have even used TikTok challenges to instruct people on how to build inexpensive amplifiers that increase the signal from the key fob, and permit an accomplice to unlock the car from a distance, even though it's parked on the driveway. This technique has prompted manufacturers such as Kia and Toyota to release software updates that stop this vulnerability.

Experts recommend keeping your car keys farther away from your home, even in the trunk so that a thief has a harder getting access to them. You can also purchase RFID pouches to protect the signal from unauthorized use. They can be purchased for less than $10. Some have metal mesh linings. Just like your computer and phone it is essential to keep the software in your vehicle up-to date.

Radio Frequency Identification Cards

The most recent car key fobs communicate with vehicles via radio signals, allowing owners of cars to unlock and start their vehicles without touching the key. These new technologies increase the risk of theft. The signal from a keyfob's sensor can be recorded if the device is left on a table near the front door or in a wallet. Then, they can copy it with simple devices called emulators, the size of handheld consoles. From there, they are able to open the car and drive it away in minutes.

The crooks usually work in pairs. The crooks usually operate in pairs. One of them will be in front of your home with a relay amplifier, and the other will be equipped with a device that receives the signal of a keyfob. The thieves will then increase the signal to ensure it is strong enough to disable the security systems in your car.

Another method of securing key fobs is by blocking the communication between key fob and the vehicle. The thieves use signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. This muddles the signal, stopping it from reaching the car, which prevents the lock button from functioning.

Dealers in the auto industry must be on guard to protect their inventory as thieves become more sophisticated. Dealerships need to install high-security perimeter fences that include cameras and secure entrances so that thieves cannot drive flatbeds on cars after hours. They should also instruct employees on the proper handling of keys and lock vehicles securely and placing them in a secure location when they are not in use.

Technology is helping stop car thefts and fight these new thieves. For instance, some automobile manufacturers are creating key fobs with active RFID chips that incorporate frequency-hopping technology to make it more difficult for thieves to amplify the signal emanating from the key. Faraday cages are another method to stop signals from a keyfob to the vehicle. Other options include etching the last seven numbers of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the headlights, windows and mirrors to stop reuse or website re-sale of your vehicle.

Theft of VIN

Keyless entry is convenient, but it also provides new opportunities for thieves to steal vehicles. Your car will unlock doors and start the engine if it recognises the signal sent by your wireless key fob or remote. If the signal is not recognized, your car will still lock, but it will not start. This is because you need to hold the key in your hands to press an appropriate button on the fob in order to activate the starter.

Even if your car is parked, it is important to keep the remote and key fob from being seen. A criminal can use a small transmitter device to pick up your signal and then steal it. He will then be able to open your door without touching the ignition or key.

In some cases criminals are capable of swapping out the vehicle's VIN and title to hide their involvement in the stolen vehicle. This practice is referred to as VIN switching and is currently on the rise. The thieves usually purchase a damaged vehicle through auctions or the police department, and then alter the VIN. They then use the legitimate VIN of a different brand and model to get the new title and registration and then sell it to uninitiated buyers.

A popular deterrent to theft is to have your VIN inscribed into the glass of your car. There are many companies 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 hinder thieves. After all it makes it difficult for dealers to purchase your vehicle. However, a professional thief knows that etching will be an important stumbling block and will likely avoid taking your car.

The NICB also provides a free VINCheck service online to determine whether your vehicle is reported as salvaged or stolen, but not yet recovered. The service is available only on their website and requires the use of a valid VIN. In addition, a large variety of crime-deterring products are available for your car as well as visible and audible devices that serve as a deterrent to criminals. Some of them include steering wheel locks, alarms and window etching.