Keyless Entry and Car Theft

Car theft is increasing and thieves have found new ways to enter vehicles. Keyless entry is one of the most common methods.

The days of thieves smashed windows and hotwired cars to steal them. They can now hack into the computer systems of a vehicle in minutes.

Relay Attack

Since the introduction of the technology known as Push-to-Start millions of motorists have enjoyed the convenience of having the ability to start their vehicle without having to reach for a key. However, this same convenience makes vehicles more susceptible to theft. The relay attack is a new method that thieves can employ to steal cars in a matter of minutes. This method makes use of an amplifier to amplify and capture the signal sent by your car's keyfob. It allows thieves to unlock your car and drive off.

Relay attacks are a variation on an older technique known as Man-in the-Middle Attacks. This kind of attack can be used in cybersecurity to snoop on communications between two entities and alter it without not knowing. In the case of a relay attack, the attacker employs a device to intercept the signal from the key fob in your car and then transmits that signal to another device located close to. This second device will open the door and begin the engine of your vehicle in just a few just a few seconds.

Criminals can conduct a relay attack by making use of a low-cost and readily accessible device to detect the signal from the key fob. Typically, thieves work in pairs, with one holding the relay amplifier, and the other one standing close to the house of the victim. The thief wave the device in the direction of the home of the victim, and then tricks the car into believing that the key is close by.

To prevent this type theft, experts suggest that you store your key fob when it is not in use in a metal container or pouch. This is a simple but ineffective solution against modern relay devices. A steering wheel lock is a much superior option, since it physically blocks the person who stole the vehicle from driving the vehicle after it's been stolen keys.

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 devised devices that can thwart these measures. As a result, the race is on to discover a way to stop relay crime without comprising the convenience of keyless technology.

Hacking

A lot of new cars come with keyless entry systems that allow drivers to open and start their vehicle without the need for a physical key or button. However, these systems can be susceptible to a different type of theft. The thieves may employ electronic devices that copy the signal of the key fob, and transmit it to an accomplice holding an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The thief then has the ability to unlock the car and drive away. This method is called relay attack. It can be done in between 20 and 30 seconds according to AAA.

Often, thieves can use inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals to collect the signal and relay it to an accomplice. When the victim clicks their key fob to unlock or start the vehicle, the thief could pretend to be the owner of the car by sending a response to the car's computer system that makes it believe that a legitimate signal is being transmitted by the fob.

More sophisticated thieves have created devices that can be plugged into a car's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port, which is usually situated under the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect an instrument for diagnostics. The thief downloads the data from the computer in the car and creates an unlocked key fob that matches the specifications of the car. This kind of hacking is possible on virtually all cars.

Some thieves have used TikTok challenges as a way to instruct people on how to build cheap amplifiers that increase the signal from a key fob, allowing an accomplice unlock the car while it is parked in the driveway. This technique has led manufacturers like Kia to release software updates that block the vulnerability.

Experts recommend that you keep your car stolen keyless entry keys in a trunk, or a place further away from home to ensure that thieves can't easily access them. You can also purchase RFID pouches that help protect the signal from unauthorised use. These pouches can be bought for just $10. Some have metal mesh linings. Like your computer and phone, it's important to keep the software in your vehicle up-to date.

Radio Frequency Identification Cards

The latest car key fobs connect to vehicles using radio signals, allowing the owners of the cars to open and start their vehicles without touching a key. These new technologies increase the likelihood of theft. Thieves can steal the signal from a key fob when it is placed on a table near the front door of the home or in a pocket, and they can copy the signal using devices the size of handheld gaming consoles referred to as emulators. From there, they are able to open the car and take it away in a matter of minutes.

Typically, the crooks work in pairs. The crooks usually work in pairs. One will stand outside of your house with a relay amplifier and the other will be equipped with a device that receives the signal from a keyfob. The crooks can then amplify the signal so that 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. Thieves accomplish this by using signal jammers that emit the same radio frequencies as a key fob. This muddles the signal, preventing it from being received by the car, which stops the lock button from functioning.

Auto dealers must be vigilant to guard their inventory as thieves get more sophisticated. Dealerships should put up high-security perimeter fences with cameras and secure entrances, so that thieves are unable to drive flatbeds and cars at night. They should also train their employees on proper handling of keys, including locking vehicles securely and storing them safely when not in use.

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

VIN Theft

While keyless entry is convenient however, it also creates new opportunities for thieves to rob cars. Your car will unlock doors and start the engine if it recognises the signal sent by your wireless key fob or remote. However, if the signal isn't recognized the car will lock but won't start. This is because you have to have 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 hidden. Criminals could use a tiny transmitter to intercept your signal and steal it. Then, he is able to open your door and drive off without ever having to touch the ignition or key.

Criminals are even able to swap out the VIN and title of a stolen vehicle to conceal their involvement. This is known as VIN switching and is on the rise. The thieves usually purchase a damaged vehicle at auction or from the police department and alter the VIN. They then use the genuine VIN of a different brand and model to obtain a new title and registration and then sell it to people who are not aware.

The VIN is a very popular method to stop theft. There are many firms that offer kits to do this and in certain areas, the police department or AAA offers this service for no cost. It may seem strange to think that etching will discourage thieves. After all, it makes it more difficult for dealers to buy your car stolen without key. A professional thief would avoid your car due to the fact that they know that etching can be a major obstacle to their pursuit.

The NICB provides a free VINCheck online service to determine if your vehicle has been reported stolen keys what to do or salvaged but not yet recovered. The service is only available on their website and requires a valid VIN. In addition, a large range of products to deter crime are available for your vehicle that include audible and visible devices that serve as a deterrent to criminals. These include alarms and locks for the steering wheel and window scratching.