Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft, is a growing concern for car owners worldwide. With advancements in technology, thieves have devised sophisticated methods to bypass traditional car security systems. One such method is exploiting keyless entry systems, leaving many vehicle owners vulnerable. If you own a car with keyless entry, understanding the risks and taking preventative measures is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of keyless car theft, explain how Anti Scan Car Key Boxes can protect your vehicle, and outline various strategies to safeguard your prized possession.
Understanding Keyless Car Theft: How Relay Attacks Work
Keyless car theft, often termed “relay theft” or “relay crime,” targets vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems. These systems are designed for convenience, allowing drivers to unlock and start their cars without physically using a key. However, this convenience comes with a security loophole that tech-savvy thieves exploit.
The process is surprisingly simple and alarmingly quick:
Step 1: Signal Interception – A thief, positioned near your home or wherever you keep your car keys, uses a device to capture the radio signal emitted by your key fob. This device acts as a signal amplifier, extending the range of your key’s signal.
Step 2: Signal Relay – The amplified signal is then relayed to a second thief standing near your car.
Step 3: Vehicle Access and Start-Up – Your car, tricked into believing that the key is in close proximity, unlocks its doors and disarms the immobilizer. The thieves can then enter the vehicle, start the engine with the push-button start, and drive away – all within a matter of seconds.
This entire operation can take as little as 20 to 30 seconds, making it a swift and efficient method for criminals. The frightening aspect is that thieves don’t need to be physically close to your keys; they only need to be within range to intercept the signal, which can often extend to several meters.
Is Your Car at Risk? Keyless Entry Systems Explained
To determine if your vehicle is vulnerable to relay theft, you first need to identify if it has a keyless entry system.
Keyless entry cars are characterized by the ability to unlock and start the vehicle without physically pressing buttons on the key fob. As long as the key fob is within a certain proximity to the car (often in your pocket or bag), the car will detect its presence. To start the engine, you typically just need to press a start/stop button on the dashboard.
Cars with standard remote entry, on the other hand, require you to press a button on the key fob to unlock the doors. While these systems also use radio signals, they are generally not susceptible to relay theft in the same way because the car only responds when a button is actively pressed.
If your car allows you to keep your key fob in your pocket to unlock and start the engine, it is likely equipped with a keyless entry system and is therefore at risk of relay theft.
The Solution: Anti Scan Car Key Boxes (Faraday Bags) and Other Prevention Methods
Protecting your keyless entry car from relay theft requires a multi-faceted approach. While completely eliminating the risk might be challenging, employing various preventative measures can significantly deter thieves and safeguard your vehicle. One of the most effective and readily available solutions is using an anti scan car key box, also known as a Faraday bag or pouch.
1. The Power of the Anti Scan Car Key Box (Faraday Bag)
An anti scan car key box or Faraday bag is a simple yet highly effective tool in preventing relay theft. These pouches are constructed with layers of metallic material, typically copper or aluminum, which act as a barrier to electromagnetic fields. When your key fob is placed inside a Faraday bag, it becomes shielded from external signals, effectively blocking the transmission of radio waves. This prevents thieves from intercepting your key’s signal and carrying out a relay attack.
Benefits of using an anti scan car key box:
- Signal Blocking: Effectively blocks radio signals, preventing relay attacks.
- Cost-Effective: Faraday bags are relatively inexpensive, often costing as little as £5-£20.
- Versatile: Can also block Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals from mobile phones, enhancing overall digital security.
- Easy to Use: Simply place your key fob inside the pouch when you are at home or in any situation where your car is parked and vulnerable.
Using an anti scan car key box is a proactive and affordable way to add a layer of security to your keyless entry vehicle.
2. Deactivating Your Keyless Fob’s Signal
Some keyless fobs offer the option to manually deactivate the wireless signal. This feature, sometimes referred to as “sleep mode,” can be activated through a specific button combination on the fob or via vehicle settings menus. Consult your car’s owner’s manual to determine if your key fob has this capability and how to enable it. Deactivating the signal effectively renders the fob invisible to relay theft devices when not in use.
3. Mechanical Deterrents: Steering Wheel Locks and Car Alarms
In an age of sophisticated electronic theft methods, traditional mechanical deterrents like steering wheel locks can still be surprisingly effective. Thieves often prefer quick and discreet methods, and a visible steering wheel lock adds a physical barrier that can deter them from targeting your vehicle.
Similarly, a car alarm system, especially one that is not factory-fitted, can provide an extra layer of security. While alarms may not prevent relay theft directly, they can alert you and others to unauthorized entry, potentially disrupting the theft in progress. Furthermore, installing a car alarm may even lead to reduced car insurance premiums.
When choosing security devices like steering wheel locks, look for products with third-party approvals such as “Sold Secure,” which indicates that the product has been tested against common criminal tools.
4. Secure Parking: Garage and Defensive Parking
Where you park your car can also play a role in preventing keyless car theft. Parking your vehicle inside a garage overnight is an ideal security measure. This significantly increases the distance between your car and potential thieves attempting to intercept your key fob signal.
If garage parking isn’t an option, consider “defensive parking” on your driveway. Park as close to your house as possible, making it more challenging for thieves to get within signal range of your keys inside your home. If street parking is unavoidable, choose well-lit areas with higher pedestrian traffic to deter opportunistic thieves.
5. VIN Etching: Deterring Re-identification
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etching is a process of permanently marking your car’s windows, headlights, and mirrors with the VIN or registration number. This makes it significantly more difficult for thieves to resell stolen vehicles or their parts, as the etched markings act as a clear identifier. While VIN etching doesn’t prevent relay theft itself, it can act as a deterrent and reduce the attractiveness of your car to thieves.
6. Keep Your Car Tidy: Reducing Temptation
While seemingly unrelated to keyless car theft, keeping your car tidy and free of visible valuables can minimize your risk of becoming a target in general. Thieves are often opportunistic and may be drawn to vehicles that appear to contain valuable items. Hide electronic devices like GPS units and mobile phones, and keep your glove box empty and open to show there is nothing to hide. Even suction cup marks from GPS devices on the windshield can signal the presence of valuable electronics, so keep your car interior clean and uncluttered.
7. Secure Lost Keys and Re-programming
If you lose your car keys, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Contact a certified auto locksmith to have your car’s immobilizer system reprogrammed. This will ensure that the lost keys are no longer valid and cannot be used to start your vehicle. Reprogramming effectively removes the lost keys from your car’s database, preventing them from being used by thieves who might find or steal them.
8. Re-programme Keys for Second-hand Vehicles
If you purchase a second-hand vehicle, there’s always a chance that previous owners may still possess a set of keys. For peace of mind and enhanced security, consider having your car keys reprogrammed by an auto locksmith. This will ensure that only the keys in your possession will work with your vehicle, eliminating any potential risk from unknown or unaccounted-for keys. While reprogramming can incur a cost, especially at dealerships, utilizing an auto locksmith is often a more cost-effective solution.
Car Models at High Risk of Keyless Theft
Unfortunately, many popular car models with keyless entry systems are vulnerable to relay theft. Reports and studies have highlighted several makes and models as being particularly at risk. Popular vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Qashqai, and Ford Focus have been identified as frequent targets for relay attacks.
Research conducted by organizations like the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) has tested hundreds of keyless cars, revealing that a significant majority are susceptible to relay theft. In one study, out of 237 keyless cars tested, 230 could be unlocked and started using relay crime techniques.
Keyless Car Security Ratings: Pass and Fail Models
Recognizing the growing threat of relay theft, Thatcham Research, a UK-based automotive research center, introduced a security rating system for keyless entry vehicles. They tested various models against relay attacks and categorized them as “PASSED” or “FAILED” based on their security performance.
Keyless Entry Vehicle Models – PASSED Keyless Car Theft Test (Superior Security Rating)
| Keyless Entry Vehicle Model | Pass Or Fail | Security Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Audi e-tron | Pass | Superior |
| BMW 1 Series / 7 Series / 8 Series | Pass | Superior |
| BMW X6 / X7 | Pass | Superior |
| Ford Puma | Pass | Superior |
| Jaguar XE | Pass | Superior |
| Land Rover Evoque | Pass | Superior |
| Mercedes B-Class | Pass | Superior |
| Porsche 911 | Pass | Superior |
| Porsche Macan | Pass | Superior |
| Volkswagen Passat | Pass | Superior |
These models demonstrated robust security measures that effectively resisted relay attacks during Thatcham’s testing.
Keyless Entry Vehicle Models – FAILED Keyless Car Theft Test (Poor Security Rating)
| Keyless Entry Vehicle Model | Pass Or Fail | Security Rating |
|---|---|---|
| DS3 Crossback | Fail | Poor |
| Ford Mondeo | Fail | Poor |
| Kia ProCeed | Fail | Poor |
| Lexus UX | Fail | Poor |
| Hyundai Nexo | Fail | Poor |
| Mazda 3 | Fail | Poor |
| Toyota Corolla | Fail | Poor |
| Toyota RAV-4 | Fail | Poor |
| Volvo V60 | Fail | Poor |
These models were found to have inadequate security measures and were vulnerable to relay attacks in Thatcham’s tests. This information can be valuable for car buyers considering the security aspects of keyless entry systems.
FAQs About Anti Scan Car Key Boxes and Keyless Car Theft
Does putting car keys in a tin block the signal?
Storing your key fob in a metallic tin may offer some degree of signal blocking, as metal can interfere with radio waves. However, the effectiveness of a tin can vary depending on its thickness and material. For reliable signal blocking, a purpose-designed anti scan car key box or Faraday pouch with multiple layers of specialized metallic fabric is recommended. If you choose to use a tin, test its effectiveness by attempting to unlock your car while the keys are inside to ensure the signal is truly blocked.
Where should I keep my car keys at night?
To maximize protection against relay theft, especially during nighttime when your car is typically parked and vulnerable, store your key fob inside an anti scan car key box (Faraday pouch). Place the pouch as far away from doors and windows as possible, ideally in a central location within your home, further reducing the risk of signal interception.
Will My Car Insurance Cover Keyless Car theft?
Most comprehensive car insurance policies will cover theft, including instances of keyless car theft. However, insurance providers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys issued with the vehicle. This is where using an anti scan car key box and taking other preventative measures can be beneficial, as they demonstrate your proactive approach to security. Always check with your specific insurance provider to understand the details of your policy regarding theft coverage and any requirements related to keyless car theft prevention.
Are Car Manufacturers doing anything to Prevent Keyless Car Theft?
Yes, car manufacturers are increasingly aware of the relay theft threat and are implementing preventative measures in newer models. Some manufacturers, like Kia, are even providing Faraday bags with new vehicles. Others, such as Ford, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes, have introduced “motion sensor key fobs.” These fobs automatically enter a sleep mode after a period of inactivity (e.g., 40 seconds), ceasing signal transmission and preventing relay attacks. While these advancements are encouraging, it’s essential to verify the specific security features of your car model and year, as not all keyless systems are equally secure.
Are Vans also at threat to Keyless Theft?
Yes, vans equipped with keyless entry systems are equally vulnerable to relay theft as cars. In fact, reports have indicated a rise in keyless van thefts, with models like the Ford Transit being particularly targeted. Van owners should adopt the same preventative measures as car owners, including using anti scan car key boxes and considering additional security devices.
What is the future of Relay theft?
The automotive industry and law enforcement agencies are actively working to combat relay theft. Car manufacturers are continuously developing more secure keyless systems, and collaborations between industry stakeholders and police forces are aimed at addressing vehicle theft on a broader scale. However, as technology evolves, so do the tactics of thieves. Proactive measures like using anti scan car key boxes and staying informed about the latest security recommendations remain crucial for car owners to protect their vehicles.
Have a Question about Keyless Car theft?
If you are concerned about keyless car theft and want to learn more about protecting your vehicle, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experts can provide personalized advice and guidance. You can also find a licensed car locksmith in your area for professional security assessments and solutions.
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