Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft or Key Scanning Car Theft, is a growing concern for vehicle owners. If you own a car with keyless entry, understanding this modern method of theft and how to safeguard your vehicle is crucial. This article will explain what key scanning car theft is, how it works, and provide actionable steps to prevent it from happening to you.
Understanding Key Scanning Car Theft
Key scanning car theft, often referred to as relay theft or relay crime, targets vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems. This sophisticated technique involves criminals using electronic devices to capture and amplify the signal emitted by your car’s key fob. The goal is to trick your car into thinking the key is present, allowing thieves to unlock and drive away in your vehicle in a matter of seconds.
How Key Scanning Car Theft Works: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of key scanning car theft is surprisingly quick and efficient, often taking less than a minute. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically unfolds:
Step 1: Signal Interception: A thief, positioned near your home or wherever your car keys are located, uses a device to scan and intercept the radio signal emitted by your key fob. This device acts as a receiver, capturing the unique signal that your key transmits to your car.
Step 2: Signal Relay: The intercepted signal is then relayed to a second thief standing near your car. This second device amplifies the signal and transmits it to your vehicle.
Step 3: Vehicle Deception: Upon receiving the amplified signal, your car’s keyless entry system is fooled into believing that the actual key fob is nearby. This triggers the car to unlock the doors and disengage the immobilizer.
Step 4: Start and Drive Away: Once inside, the thieves can simply press the start button and drive off with your vehicle, all without ever needing the physical key.
This entire process can be completed in as little as 20 to 30 seconds, making it a swift and effective method for car theft. The proximity required for thieves to capture your key’s signal is relatively short, usually within a few meters, emphasizing the need for preventative measures.
Is Your Car at Risk of Key Scanning Theft?
The primary target of key scanning car theft is vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems. If you need to physically press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, your vehicle is not vulnerable to this specific type of attack. However, if your car allows you to unlock and start the engine while the key fob remains in your pocket or bag, then your vehicle has a keyless entry system and is potentially at risk.
Keyless entry systems are designed for convenience, allowing drivers to unlock and start their cars without physically using a key. While convenient, this technology introduces a security vulnerability that criminals exploit through key scanning techniques.
Proven Methods to Prevent Key Scanning Car Theft
Protecting your keyless entry car from key scanning theft requires adopting a combination of practical security measures. Here are effective strategies to deter thieves and safeguard your vehicle:
1. Utilize a Signal Blocking Pouch (Faraday Bag)
A simple yet highly effective method to prevent key scanning car theft is to store your key fob in a signal blocking pouch, often known as a Faraday bag. These pouches are lined with metallic materials that create a barrier, preventing radio waves from escaping or entering.
By placing your key fob inside a Faraday bag, you effectively block its signal from being intercepted by thieves using scanning devices. This measure disrupts the relay attack process, as criminals cannot capture the necessary signal to trick your car. Faraday bags are inexpensive and readily available online or at auto accessory stores, making them an accessible and worthwhile investment in your car’s security. Remember to use a Faraday bag for both your primary and spare key fobs.
2. Disable Your Keyless Fob’s Wireless Signal
Some keyless fobs offer the option to manually disable their wireless signal when not in use. This feature, if available on your key fob, can significantly enhance your car’s security against key scanning theft.
Consult your car’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to deactivate the wireless signal of your key fob. The process often involves a specific sequence of button presses. If you cannot find information in your manual, contact your vehicle manufacturer or dealership for guidance. Disabling the signal ensures that even if a thief attempts to scan for it, no signal will be transmitted, rendering their scanning device useless.
3. Install a Steering Wheel Lock or Car Alarm
Physical security devices like steering wheel locks and car alarms serve as strong visual and audible deterrents to car thieves, including those attempting key scanning theft.
Steering wheel locks are mechanical devices that physically prevent the steering wheel from turning, making it extremely difficult to steer and drive the car. Car alarms, when triggered by unauthorized entry or movement, emit loud noises and flashing lights, attracting attention and potentially scaring off thieves.
For enhanced security, choose steering wheel locks and car alarms that have been tested and approved by independent security organizations like Sold Secure. These devices are designed to withstand common theft tools and techniques. Furthermore, installing a car alarm can sometimes lead to reduced car insurance premiums; check with your insurance provider for potential discounts.
4. Park Strategically and Secure Your Home
Where and how you park your car, along with home security measures, can play a role in preventing key scanning car theft.
Parking your car in a garage overnight is an ideal deterrent, as it adds a physical barrier and increases the distance between your car and potential thieves trying to intercept key fob signals. If garage parking isn’t possible, park in well-lit areas or as close to your home as possible. Defensive parking minimizes accessibility for thieves and maximizes visibility.
Enhance your home security by installing outdoor motion sensor lighting and CCTV cameras. Well-lit surroundings and visible security cameras can deter criminals from targeting your property and vehicle. Consider consulting a local locksmith for a comprehensive home security assessment and recommendations for upgrades.
5. Consider VIN Etching
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching involves permanently marking your car’s windows and mirrors with the last seven digits of your VIN or registration number. This simple and relatively inexpensive procedure makes it significantly more difficult for thieves to resell stolen vehicles or their parts.
Etched windows and mirrors are easily identifiable and less desirable for resale, as replacing them is costly and time-consuming. VIN etching acts as a deterrent by increasing the risk and reducing the potential profit for car thieves.
6. Maintain a Tidy Vehicle Interior
While it may seem unrelated, keeping your car’s interior tidy can indirectly help prevent car theft. Avoid leaving valuable items, such as electronic devices, in plain sight inside your vehicle. Thieves may be motivated to attempt theft, including key scanning, if they spot attractive targets inside your car.
Hide electronic devices like GPS navigation systems and mobile phones. Empty your glove compartment and consider leaving it open to show potential thieves that there are no valuables inside. Concealing or removing signs of expensive equipment, such as suction cup marks from GPS devices on the windshield, can also reduce your car’s appeal to thieves.
7. Secure Lost or Stolen Car Keys
If you lose your car keys or suspect they have been stolen, act promptly to prevent potential key scanning car theft. Contact a certified auto locksmith immediately. A professional locksmith can reprogram your car’s immobilizer system to recognize only your current set of keys and erase any lost or stolen keys from the system’s memory.
Reprogramming ensures that even if a thief possesses your stolen keys, they will be unable to use them to unlock or start your car, effectively mitigating the risk of key scanning or traditional theft.
8. Reprogram Keys for Second-hand Vehicles
When purchasing a second-hand vehicle, it’s prudent to reprogram the car keys, especially if you are unsure whether you received all sets of keys from the previous owner. Reprogramming will invalidate any keys held by the previous owner, preventing them from potentially accessing your vehicle.
While reprogramming keys can incur a cost, especially through dealerships, utilizing a certified auto locksmith is often a more affordable alternative. Reprogramming provides peace of mind and ensures that only you have valid keys to your vehicle.
Car Models at Risk of Key Scanning Theft
Any vehicle equipped with a keyless entry system is inherently vulnerable to key scanning theft. Popular car models like Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Qashqai, and Ford Focus have been identified as being at risk.
Studies conducted by organizations like the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) have demonstrated that a significant majority of keyless cars tested were susceptible to relay attacks. However, some manufacturers have begun implementing countermeasures to enhance security.
Thatcham, a UK-based automotive research center, introduced a security rating system for keyless entry cars, specifically evaluating their resistance to relay theft. Vehicles that passed their tests and achieved a “Superior” security rating include models from Audi, BMW, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Conversely, models from DS, Ford, Kia, Lexus, Hyundai, Mazda, Toyota, and Volvo were among those that failed and received a “Poor” security rating.
It’s important to note that car manufacturers are continuously working on improving keyless entry system security. Newer models may incorporate advanced security features to mitigate the risk of key scanning theft.
Key Scanning Car Theft: Frequently Asked Questions
Does putting car keys in a tin block the signal?
Storing your key fob in a metal tin may offer some degree of signal blocking. Metal can act as a Faraday cage, potentially disrupting the radio waves. However, the effectiveness of a tin can vary depending on its material and construction. For reliable signal blocking, a dedicated Faraday bag is recommended. If using a tin, test its effectiveness by attempting to unlock your car with the key fob inside the tin while standing near the vehicle.
Where should I keep my car keys at night to prevent key scanning car theft?
For maximum protection against key scanning car theft, store your key fob inside a Faraday bag or signal blocking pouch at night. Place the pouch as far away from doors and windows as possible, ideally in a location furthest from your car’s parking spot. This minimizes the risk of thieves intercepting the signal, even with signal amplification devices.
Will my car insurance cover key scanning car theft?
Most comprehensive car insurance policies typically cover car theft, including instances of key scanning car theft. However, insurance providers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys for the stolen vehicle. It’s essential to review your specific car insurance policy and confirm the coverage details with your insurer to understand the terms and conditions related to theft claims.
Are car manufacturers taking action to prevent key scanning car theft?
Yes, car manufacturers are increasingly aware of the key scanning theft threat and are implementing preventative measures. Some manufacturers, like Kia, are providing Faraday bags to customers. Others, including Ford, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes, have introduced motion sensor key fobs. These fobs automatically enter a sleep mode after a period of inactivity, ceasing signal transmission and preventing signal interception by thieves. Car manufacturers are continuously developing and incorporating advanced security technologies to combat evolving theft techniques.
Are vans also vulnerable to key scanning theft?
Yes, vans equipped with keyless entry systems are equally vulnerable to key scanning theft as cars. Reports indicate a rise in keyless van thefts, with popular models like Ford Transits being targeted. Van owners should adopt the same preventative measures as car owners to protect their vehicles from key scanning attacks.
What is the future of relay theft and key scanning car theft prevention?
Law enforcement agencies and automotive security experts are actively working with car manufacturers to address key scanning theft. Efforts include advocating for enhanced security standards in keyless entry systems and developing more robust anti-theft technologies. In the meantime, practical measures like using Faraday bags and physical security devices remain crucial for car owners to protect their vehicles from this evolving threat.
Have Questions About Key Scanning Car Theft?
If you are concerned about key scanning car theft and want to learn more about protecting your vehicle, contact us for expert advice. You can also consult with a certified car locksmith in your area for tailored security solutions.
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