Keyless Entry and Car Theft
The number of car thefts is rising and thieves are finding new ways to get into vehicles. One of the most popular methods is keyless entry.
The days of stealing cars by breaking windows and hotwiring them are long gone. They can now hack into the computer systems of a vehicle in minutes.
Relay Attack
Since the introduction of Push-to-Start technology millions of motorists have benefited from having the ability to start their car without needing keys. However, this convenience can make vehicles susceptible to theft. In particular thieves have been able to use a new technique called the relay attack to steal cars in seconds. This method uses an instrument to capture and amplify the signal from your car's key fob permitting thieves to unlock the car and then drive away.
Relay attacks are a variant of an older technique known as Man-in-the-Middle attacks. This kind of attack could be used in cybersecurity to snoop on communications between two parties and alter it without either party not knowing. In a relay attack the attacker uses an electronic device to record and transmit the signal from the fob of the key in your car to another device nearby. The second device is able to open the door and start your car's engine in seconds.
In order to carry out an attack using relays, criminals simply need an affordable, easily accessible device that is able to pick up and amplify the signal coming from your key fob. Typically, thieves work in pairs, with one holding the relay amplifier, and the other standing near the home of the victim. The thief swizzles the device in the direction of the home of the victim, luring the car into thinking that the key is close by.
Some experts recommend storing your key fob in a steel container, signal-blocking pouch or Faraday bag when it is not in use to prevent this type of theft. This is a basic but ineffective solution against modern relay devices. A better alternative is to purchase an ignition lock for the steering wheel, which physically blocks the criminal's ability to steer the vehicle once it's
stolen car with keys left in it.
Many
car stolen keys left in car manufacturers have attempted to address 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 been able to create devices that can defeat these measures. In the end, the race is on to discover a way to stop criminals who use relays without compromising the convenient nature of technology that is keyless.
Hacking
Many new cars are equipped with keyless entry systems, which allow drivers to open and start their vehicle without the need of the use of a physical key or button. However, these systems can be vulnerable to a new kind of theft. The thieves could employ electronic devices that copy the signal from the key fob and transmit it to a accomplice who is holding an electronic transmitter near the vehicle. The criminal then unlocks the vehicle and drives away. According to AAA, this method is referred to as a relay attack. It can be accomplished in between 20 and 30 seconds.
Most often, thieves will use inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals in order to capture the signal and transmit it to a third party. When the victim presses their key fob to lock or start the car, the thief can pretend to be the legitimate owner by sending a signal to the car's computer system that makes it believe that a legitimate signal is being sent by the fob.
More sophisticated thieves have developed devices that can be connected into a car's On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port, which is usually located beneath the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect an instrument for diagnostics. The criminal then downloads data from the computer in the car and creates an empty key fob that is compatible with the car's specifications. 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 of a key fob, allowing an accomplice to unlock the car while it is parked in the driveway. This method has led to manufacturers like Kia and Toyota to release software updates that block this vulnerability.
Experts suggest that you store your car keys in a trunk or space that is far from home, so that a burglar cannot easily gain access to them. You can also invest in RFID pouches that shield the signal and deter unauthorised use. Some of these pouches have mesh linings made of metal, and can be purchased at a price that is about $10. It is also essential to keep your car's software current and up to date, just as you do with your phone and computer.
Radio Frequency Identification Cards
The latest car key fobs make use of radio signals to communicate with the vehicle and allow owners to unlock their vehicles and start them without needing to touch a key. Unfortunately, these new technologies are also increasing the chance of theft. Thieves can capture the signal from a key fob if it is placed on a table near the front door of the house or in a pocket and they are able to duplicate the signal using simple devices that are similar to handheld gaming consoles referred to as emulators. They can then unlock the
car stolen keys left in car in just a few minutes and drive off.
The crooks typically work in pairs. One will stand outside your house holding a relay amplifier and the other one will hold the device that captures the signal from a key fob. The thieves can then amplify the signal until it becomes strong enough to be able to bypass security systems in your car.
Another method of securing key fobs is by blocking the communication between keyfob and the vehicle. The thieves employ signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. The signal is blocked and prevents it from being detected by the vehicle. The lock button is not working.
Dealers of automobiles must be vigilant to safeguard their inventory as thieves become more sophisticated. Dealerships should install high-security perimeter fences, with cameras and secure entrances, so that thieves can't drive flatbeds with vehicles after hours. They should also instruct employees on proper methods of handling keys, including securely locking cars and placing them in a secure location when not in use.
Fortunately, technology is working to combat these new thieves and stop car thefts. Some car manufacturers are developing key fobs with active RFID chips and frequency-hopping technology, which makes it more difficult for thieves to amplify the signal of the keys. Faraday cages are another method to block signals from a keyfob's signal to the vehicle. Other options include etching the last seven digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the headlights, windows, and mirrors to prevent the re-sale or re-use of your vehicle.
VIN Theft
Keyless entry is useful, but it also opens up new possibilities for thieves to take vehicles. Your car will open the doors and start its engine when it recognises the signal sent by your wireless key fob or remote. However, if the signal isn't detected the car will lock but will not start. You need to hold the key to activate the starter.
Even when your
my spare car key was stolen is parked, it's crucial to keep the remote and key fob in a safe place. Criminals can steal your signal using a small transmitter. He can then open your door without touching the ignition or key.
In certain instances criminals are capable of swapping the vehicle's VIN and title to hide their involvement in the theft of the vehicle. This practice, also known as VIN-switching is on increasing. The thieves will usually buy a damaged vehicle at auction or from the police department and modify the VIN.