Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft or relay attack, is a growing concern for car owners. If you own a vehicle with a keyless entry system, understanding how thieves scan car keys is crucial to protect your property. This article will delve into the methods used by criminals to exploit keyless technology and, more importantly, provide actionable steps you can take to safeguard your car.
Understanding How Keyless Car Theft Works
Keyless car theft targets vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems. These systems are designed for convenience, allowing you to unlock and start your car without physically using a key. However, this convenience has created a vulnerability that tech-savvy thieves are exploiting.
The Relay Attack: How Thieves Scan Your Car Keys
The core of keyless car theft lies in a technique called a “relay attack.” This method allows thieves to effectively “scan” and amplify the signal emitted by your car key fob, even when it’s inside your home. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how thieves scan car keys using a relay attack:
Step 1: Signal Acquisition
One thief, equipped with a relay device (signal amplifier or scanner), positions themselves near your house, typically close to where you park your car or where you keep your keys inside. This device is designed to detect and capture the low-frequency radio signals emitted by your key fob.
Step 2: Signal Amplification and Relay
Once the relay device captures the weak signal from your key fob, it amplifies it and “relays” it to a second device held by another thief standing near your car. Think of it as extending the range of your key’s signal.
Step 3: Vehicle Deception
The amplified signal transmitted by the second relay device tricks your car into thinking that the actual key fob is nearby. This fools the car’s security system, allowing the thieves to unlock the doors and start the engine as if they had the key in their pocket.
Step 4: Swift Theft
The entire process of scanning and relaying the key signal, opening the car, and starting the ignition can take as little as 20-30 seconds. This speed and stealth make relay attacks a particularly effective and alarming method of car theft.
Devices Used to Scan Car Keys
The devices used in relay attacks are often referred to as relay boxes, signal amplifiers, or key cloning tools. These are specialist electronic equipment designed to intercept, amplify, and re-transmit radio frequencies. While the specifics of these devices can vary, their core function remains the same: to bridge the distance between your key fob and your car by boosting the signal.
These devices are becoming increasingly sophisticated and, unfortunately, more accessible. This accessibility contributes to the rise in keyless car theft incidents.
How Close Do Thieves Need to Be to Scan Your Keys?
A common question among concerned car owners is, “How far away can thieves scan my car keys?” The effectiveness of relay devices depends on several factors, including the device’s quality and the specific car model’s security system. However, thieves generally need to be within a few meters (yards) of your car keys to successfully capture the signal.
This proximity is why it’s crucial to consider where you store your keys at home, especially overnight. Leaving keys near doors or windows makes it easier for thieves to scan the signal from outside your property.
Is Your Car at Risk of Keyless Theft?
The primary factor determining your car’s vulnerability to relay theft is whether it has a keyless entry system. If you need to press a button on your key fob to unlock your car, your vehicle is not susceptible to this specific type of attack. Relay theft targets cars that allow you to unlock, enter, and start the ignition without physically pressing any buttons on the fob – as long as the key is within a certain proximity.
If you are unsure whether your car has a keyless entry system, consult your owner’s manual or check with your car dealership. It’s essential to know your vehicle’s security features to take appropriate preventative measures.
Preventing Keyless Car Theft: Protecting Your Vehicle from Relay Attacks
Now that you understand how thieves scan car keys, let’s discuss effective strategies to prevent keyless car theft and protect your vehicle.
1. Use a Faraday Bag or Signal Blocking Pouch
The most effective and readily available method to prevent relay attacks is using a signal blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag. These pouches are lined with metallic materials that block electromagnetic fields, effectively preventing your key fob from transmitting its signal.
By placing your key fob inside a Faraday bag when you are at home, particularly overnight, you create a barrier that stops thieves from scanning your keys. These pouches are inexpensive and can be purchased online or from automotive accessory stores. Ensure you also use a Faraday bag for any spare key fobs you have.
2. Disable Keyless Fob Wireless Signals (If Possible)
Some modern keyless fobs offer the option to deactivate the wireless signal when not in use. This feature, often referred to as “sleep mode” or “standby mode,” prevents the fob from constantly emitting a signal that can be scanned.
Check your car’s owner’s manual or contact your vehicle manufacturer to determine if your key fob has this deactivation feature and how to enable it. Utilizing this feature when you are at home adds another layer of security against relay attacks.
3. Employ Physical Security Measures: Steering Wheel Locks and Car Alarms
While technology is at the heart of relay attacks, traditional physical security measures remain highly effective deterrents. Steering wheel locks and car alarms can significantly increase the difficulty and risk for thieves attempting to steal your vehicle, even if they manage to bypass the keyless entry system.
-
Steering Wheel Locks: These mechanical devices physically lock the steering wheel, making it impossible to steer the car. Their visual presence alone can deter thieves, as they add time and effort to the theft process. Look for steering wheel locks with third-party approvals like “Sold Secure,” indicating they have been tested against common criminal tools.
-
Car Alarms: Modern car alarms, especially those professionally installed and Thatcham-approved, offer robust protection. Even if thieves gain entry, a loud alarm will draw attention and can scare them away. Furthermore, installing an aftermarket alarm can sometimes reduce your car insurance premiums.
4. Park Strategically and Securely
Where you park your car can also impact its vulnerability to keyless theft. Parking in a garage overnight is ideal, as it adds a physical barrier and increases the distance between your car and potential thieves trying to scan your keys.
If garage parking isn’t possible, park in well-lit areas and, if parking on your driveway, park as close to your house as possible. This reduces accessibility for thieves attempting to operate relay devices discreetly.
5. VIN Etching for Vehicle Deterrence
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching involves permanently etching your car’s VIN or registration number onto the windows and headlights. This makes it significantly harder for thieves to resell stolen vehicles or their parts, as the car becomes easily identifiable.
While VIN etching doesn’t prevent keyless theft directly, it acts as a strong deterrent. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles that are difficult to dispose of after stealing.
6. Keep Your Car Interior Tidy and Valuables Hidden
Although seemingly unrelated to how thieves scan car keys, keeping your car tidy and free of visible valuables can reduce your risk of becoming a target. Thieves may be less likely to target a car that doesn’t obviously contain valuable items, reducing the chances of them attempting any theft method, including relay attacks. Hide electronic devices, bags, and any other items that might attract attention.
7. Secure Lost or Second-hand Car Keys
If you lose your car keys, or if you have purchased a second-hand vehicle, it’s crucial to take steps to secure your car against potential theft from compromised keys.
-
Lost Keys: If you lose your keys, contact a certified auto locksmith immediately. They can reprogram your car’s system to recognize only your current keys, rendering any lost keys useless.
-
Second-hand Cars: When buying a used car, there’s always a risk that previous owners may still have keys. Consider having your car keys reprogrammed to ensure only your keys will work with the vehicle. While reprogramming can be an expense, it’s a worthwhile security measure, especially when purchasing from private sellers or less reputable sources.
Car Models at Risk and Security Ratings
It’s important to be aware that not all keyless entry systems are equally vulnerable. Automotive security testing organizations like Thatcham Research have conducted tests on various keyless entry car models to assess their resistance to relay attacks.
Cars Vulnerable to Relay Attacks: Many popular car models have been found to be vulnerable to relay theft, including models from Ford, Volkswagen, Nissan, and Toyota. Older keyless systems are generally more susceptible.
Cars with Enhanced Security: Some manufacturers have implemented countermeasures to mitigate relay attacks in newer models. These measures can include motion sensor key fobs that deactivate after a period of inactivity and more sophisticated vehicle security systems. Models from Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche have shown better resistance in some tests.
It’s advisable to research the security rating of your specific car model, particularly if it’s a newer vehicle, to understand its level of protection against keyless theft.
Keyless Car Theft FAQs
Q: Does putting car keys in a tin block the signal?
A: Storing your car key fob in a metal tin might offer some level of signal blocking. Metal can interfere with radio waves. However, a standard tin may not provide complete signal blocking. For reliable protection, a Faraday bag specifically designed for signal blocking is recommended. Always test any makeshift metal container to ensure it effectively blocks the signal before relying on it.
Q: Where should I keep my car keys at night to prevent scanning?
A: To prevent thieves from scanning your car keys at night, the best practice is to store your key fob inside a Faraday bag and place it as far away from exterior doors and windows as possible. Ideally, keep your keys in a room furthest from the car parking location.
Q: Will my car insurance cover keyless car theft?
A: Most comprehensive car insurance policies should cover theft, including keyless car theft. However, insurance providers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys for the stolen vehicle. It’s always best to verify your specific coverage details with your insurance provider to understand your policy’s terms and conditions regarding keyless car theft.
Q: Are car manufacturers doing anything to prevent keyless car theft?
A: Yes, car manufacturers are increasingly aware of the threat of keyless car theft and are implementing preventative measures. Some are introducing motion sensor key fobs that go into sleep mode when inactive, reducing the window of opportunity for signal scanning. Others are incorporating more advanced encryption and security protocols into their keyless entry systems. Some manufacturers, like Kia, are even providing Faraday bags to customers.
Q: Are vans also at threat of keyless theft?
A: Yes, vans with keyless entry systems are also vulnerable to relay attacks, just like cars. Reports indicate a rise in keyless van thefts, with popular van models like Ford Transits being targeted. Van owners should also take preventative measures to protect their vehicles from keyless theft.
Q: What is the future of relay theft?
A: As car manufacturers continue to enhance security measures in keyless systems, the methods used by thieves are also likely to evolve. The automotive security industry is constantly working to stay ahead of these threats. For now, and likely for the foreseeable future, preventative measures like using Faraday bags and physical security devices remain crucial for car owners to protect their vehicles from keyless theft.
Protect Your Keyless Car Today
Understanding how thieves scan car keys is the first step in protecting yourself from keyless car theft. By implementing the preventative measures outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of relay attacks. Take action today to safeguard your vehicle and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your property.
For further advice on car security and protecting your vehicle from theft, consult with a certified car security specialist or a licensed auto locksmith in your area.
Contact us for car security advice
Find a certified car security expert near you
Recommended Reading
