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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 common methods is keyless entry.

Gone are the days when thieves broke windows and hotwired cars to steal them. They can now hack the computer systems of a vehicle within a matter of minutes.

Relay Attack

Since the introduction of Push-to-Start technology millions of motorists have enjoyed the convenience of having the ability to start their vehicle without having to reach for keys. However, this same convenience can make vehicles vulnerable to theft. The relay attack is a novel technique that thieves use to steal cars in a matter of seconds. This method uses a device to capture and amplify the signal sent by your my car key was stolen's key fob allowing thieves to unlock and drive away.

The relay attack is an alteration of an older method known as Man-in-the-Middle attacks. This kind of attack could be used in cybersecurity to intercept communications between two parties and alter it without knowing. In the scenario of a relay attack, the attacker employs a device to intercept the signal from the key fob in your car and transmits that signal to a different device that is close by. The second device can be used to open the door and start the engine, thereby taking your vehicle away in a matter of minutes.

In order to carry out an attack using relays criminals need only an affordable, easily accessible device that can pick up and amplify the signal emanating from your key fob. Typically, thieves work in pairs. One person holds the relay amplifier, while another is outside, near the victim's home. The thief swizzles the device towards the home of the victim, and then tricks the car into thinking the key is in close proximity.

Some experts suggest storing your key fob in a metallic container, signal-blocking pouch, or Faraday bag when it is not in use to avoid this kind of theft. However it is a straightforward solution that has been shown to not work against modern relay devices. A far better option is to purchase the use of a steering wheel lock which physically blocks the thief's ability to steer the vehicle after it's taken.

Many car manufacturers have attempted to tackle this problem by introducing features such as secure keyless entry systems that rely on cryptographic methods and time-sensitive codes to protect against relay attacks. However, criminals have been able to create devices that defy these measures. The race is now on to find a solution to relay crime that does not compromise the convenience of keyless technology.

Hacking

Many new cars are fitted with keyless entry systems which let drivers start and open their vehicle without needing an actual button or key. However, these systems could be susceptible to a different kind of theft. The thieves may make use of electronic devices that replicate the signal of the key fob, and then transmit it to an accomplice who holds a transmitter close to the vehicle. The thief can then unlock the vehicle and drive away. This method is called a relay attack and can be accomplished in between 20 and 30 seconds according to AAA.

Thieves often employ cheap devices that mimic wireless key fob signal to capture it and transmit it to an accomplice. The thief then appears to be the owner of the vehicle when the victim presses the key fob to start or close the vehicle. They do this by sending a signal that appears to the car's computer as an authentic signal.

The more sophisticated thieves have designed devices that can plug into the On-Board Diagnostics port (OBD), which is typically located under the steering wheel. This port allows mechanics to connect diagnostic tools. The thief is then able to download data from the car's computers and create a blank key fob that is compatible with the car's specifications. Almost all vehicles are vulnerable to this type of hacking.

Some thieves have even made use of TikTok challenges to instruct people on how to build inexpensive amplifiers that enhance the signal from the key fob, and permit an accomplice to unlock the car from a distance, while it's parked on the driveway. This technique has prompted manufacturers like Kia and Toyota to update their software which prevent this vulnerability.

Experts recommend keeping your car my Keys Were stolen farther away from home, and even in the trunk, so that thieves have a tough time accessing them. You can also consider investing in RFID pouches to protect the signal and discourage unauthorized use. Some of these pouches feature metal mesh linings, and can be purchased on the low end for around $10. It's also important to keep your car's software up-to date, just as you would with your smartphone and computer.

Radio Frequency Identification Cards

The most recent car key fobs utilize radio signals to communicate with the vehicle, allowing owners to unlock their vehicles and start them without needing to touch the key. These new technologies increase the risk of theft. Thieves can capture the signal from a key fob when it is left on a table near the front door of the house or in a pocket and they are able to duplicate the signal with simple devices that are similar to handheld gaming consoles referred to as emulators. From there, they can open the car and drive it away in minutes.

Typically, crooks operate in pairs. One will stand outside your home, holding a relay amplifier, and the other will hold the device that captures the signal from the key fob. The thieves can then amplify the signal to make it strong enough to bypass the security systems in your vehicle.

Another popular tactic is to block communication between the key fob and the car. Thieves use signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as a key fob. This muddles the signal, preventing it from reaching the car, which stops the lock button from working.

Auto dealers must be vigilant to protect their inventory as thieves get more sophisticated. Dealerships should put up high-security perimeter fences that include cameras and secure entrances so that thieves can't drive flatbeds and cars after hours. They must also train their employees on the proper handling of my keys were stolen, such as locking cars securely and keeping keys in a safe place when not in use.

Fortunately, technology is working to stop these new thieves and stop car thefts. Certain car makers are creating keyfobs with active RFID chips and frequency-hopping technology that makes it difficult for thieves to amplify the signal of the keys. Additionally, Faraday cages can be used to stop the transmission of signals from a key fob to a car. Other defenses include engraving the last seven digits from your vehicle Identification Number (VIN), on the windows, headlights and mirrors to stop the resale or reuse of your vehicle.

VIN Theft

Keyless entry is useful, but it also provides new opportunities for thieves to steal vehicles. Your car will unlock the doors and start the engine when it detects the signal transmitted by your wireless remote or key fob. If the signal is not recognized, your car will still be locked, but it will not start. You need to hold the key in order to start the starter.

Even when your car is parked, it is important to keep the remote and key fob hidden. Criminals 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 removing the ignition or key.

Criminals may even change the VIN and the title of a stolen vehicle to hide their involvement. This practice is known as VIN switching and is currently on increasing. The thieves usually purchase a damaged vehicle at an auction or from the police department, and then modify the VIN. They then take a legitimate VIN from an alternative model and make to obtain a brand new title and registration, and then sell the car to unsuspecting buyers.

A popular theft deterrent is to have your VIN written into your vehicle's glass. There are a number of companies that provide kits for this, and in some locations the police department or AAA provides this service for no cost. It is a bit counterintuitive to think that etching can deter thieves, as it makes your vehicle more difficult what to do if your car keys get stolen sell to chop shops and other dealers. However, a professional thief is aware that etching is an important stumbling block and will likely avoid the theft of your vehicle.

The NICB also offers a no-cost VINCheck service online to determine whether your vehicle has been reported as a salvaged or stolen but has not yet been recovered. The service requires an active VIN to conduct a search and is available through their website. There are also a range of security devices that deter criminals from your vehicle. These include audible and visual devices that are able to deter criminals. Some of these include the locking of your steering wheel, alarms and window etching.