With the rise of keyless vehicles, the prevention of car theft has become a prime concern for vehicle owners. Despite the convenience of keyless systems, they have opened doors to new forms of hacking, making vehicles more susceptible to theft. Security is paramount, and it’s vital for you to understand how these hacking methods work, so you can protect your vehicle effectively. In this article, we will discuss the risks of keyless car theft, how thieves hack into your car, and the measures you can take to enhance the security of your vehicle.
Understanding the Risks of Keyless Car Theft
The evolution of vehicle technology has brought about keyless systems, enabling you to unlock and start your car without using a physical key. While this technology adds a layer of convenience, it also poses a serious risk, as thieves have found ways to exploit these systems to steal vehicles.
Thieves use devices known as ‘relay boxes’, which can pick up the signal from your key fob and transmit it to a second device near your vehicle. This tricks your car into thinking the key is nearby, thereby unlocking it and allowing the thief to drive away. This method of theft, known as ‘relay theft’, is a significant issue in the UK, with an increasing number of vehicles being stolen in this manner.
It’s important to note that any vehicle with a keyless entry system is at risk. However, certain high-end models are particularly attractive to thieves, often leading to higher insurance premiums for these vehicles.
How Thieves Hack Your Car
Understanding how thieves hack vehicles is the first step to securing your car against such attacks. Attackers mainly use two methods: relay attacks and data hacking.
In relay attacks, two thieves work together using a relay amplifier and a relay transmitter. The amplifier picks up the signal from the key fob, often through walls and doors, and relays it to the transmitter near the vehicle. The car thinks the key is present, allowing the thieves to unlock it and even start the engine.
Data hacking, on the other hand, involves hacking into the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic port, which is commonly used by mechanics to read error codes. Once the thief has access to this port, they can program a blank key fob to start the car.
These methods require technical knowledge and specialised equipment, but they’re alarmingly effective. Therefore, it’s essential to take steps to safeguard your vehicle.
Reinforcing Your Car’s Security
Your car’s security should be a top priority, and there are several measures you can take to protect it from theft. The first and most effective method is to use a signal-blocking pouch for your key fob. These pouches, made of layers of metallic material, block the signal emitted by your key, preventing relay attacks.
Another option is to install an additional security system in your car. These systems can include immobilisers, which prevent the car from starting without the correct key, and GPS trackers, which allow you to track your vehicle if it’s stolen. Some insurance companies may offer reduced premiums if you have these systems installed, so it’s worth considering.
Insurance Coverage and Compensation
Even with stringent security measures, there is always a risk of your car being stolen. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your insurance policy covers theft. In the UK, there are three types of car insurance policies: third party only, third party fire and theft, and comprehensive. The latter two provide coverage if your vehicle is stolen.
If your car is stolen, you should notify your insurance company immediately. They will require a crime reference number, which you can obtain from the police. If your vehicle is not recovered, your insurance company will usually pay out the current market value of your car.
However, it’s important to remember that prevention is better than cure. Therefore, investing in robust security measures and maintaining good practices, like keeping your keys far from doors and windows, can help protect your vehicle from hacking and theft.
The Future of Car Security
As vehicle technology continues to develop, the methods used by thieves will also evolve. But rest assured, cybersecurity experts and vehicle manufacturers are continuously working on new ways to safeguard vehicles against hacking.
In the future, we could see the widespread adoption of biometric systems, such as fingerprint and facial recognition, which are already being trialled in some high-end models. Encryption technologies are also likely to improve, making it harder for thieves to intercept and replicate key signals.
While these advancements will undoubtedly improve car security, it’s important to remember that no system is 100% foolproof. It’s up to you to stay informed about potential risks and take the necessary steps to protect your vehicle.
Ghost Immobiliser: An Advanced Anti-Theft Device
A ghost immobiliser is one of the most advanced anti-theft devices currently available in the UK. As the name suggests, it makes your car appear “ghost-like” to potential thieves. No matter how adept the thief is at hacking into keyless car systems, a ghost immobiliser makes it almost impossible for them to steal your vehicle.
So, what exactly is a ghost immobiliser and how does it work? In simple terms, it is a device that adds an extra layer of security to your vehicle. It works by integrating with your car’s engine control unit (ECU) and setting up a unique PIN code that must be entered before the car can be started. This PIN code can be up to 20 actions long and is entered using buttons already in your vehicle, such as those on the steering wheel, door panels, or centre console.
The beauty of the ghost immobiliser is that it doesn’t emit any signals that can be intercepted by car thieves. Also, since it doesn’t have a key fob, it cannot be hacked using relay attacks. Even if thieves manage to clone your car keys or hack into your keyless entry system, they still won’t be able to start the car without entering the correct PIN code.
In addition, the ghost immobiliser doesn’t affect your car’s standard operation or performance, and it doesn’t leave any visible alterations. This means that, to the untrained eye, there is no way of knowing that your vehicle has extra security measures in place.
Installing a ghost immobiliser can also lead to a reduction in your car insurance premiums. Many insurance companies recognise the additional protection that these devices offer and may offer discounts to policyholders who have them installed.
Conclusion: Protect Your Vehicle and Peace of Mind
In the fast-paced world of technology, ensuring the security of your vehicle can feel like an uphill battle. However, by understanding the risks of keyless car theft, familiarising yourself with the methods used by car thieves to access your car, and implementing robust security measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to car hacking in the UK.
Investing in devices like signal-blocking pouches, GPS trackers, and advanced systems like the ghost immobiliser can greatly enhance your vehicle’s security. Coupled with maintaining good habits like keeping your keys away from doors and windows and ensuring that your car insurance covers theft, you can safeguard your vehicle effectively.
Land Rover, among other manufacturers, is already implementing biometric systems such as fingerprint and facial recognition in their high-end models. As vehicle technology continues to evolve, there’s no doubt that car security will also improve, making it increasingly difficult for thieves to steal vehicles.
Remember, the safety of your vehicle is in your hands. Stay vigilant, stay updated, and take the necessary steps to protect your car from potential threats.
