Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft, is a growing concern for car owners. Modern vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems are vulnerable to sophisticated techniques that can leave your car stolen in mere seconds. If you own a car with keyless entry, understanding how to protect it is crucial. One of the most effective and affordable solutions is using an Anti Scan Car Key Holder, also known as a Faraday bag or signal blocking pouch. This article will delve into the world of keyless car theft, explain how anti scan car key holders work, and provide comprehensive advice on how to safeguard your vehicle.
Understanding Keyless Car Theft: How Relay Attacks Work
Keyless car theft exploits the technology behind keyless entry systems. These systems allow you to unlock and start your car without physically using a key. Your car key fob emits a short-range radio signal that your car detects when you are nearby. However, thieves use a “relay attack” to amplify and extend this signal, tricking your car into thinking your key is present even when it’s not.
The Relay Theft Process Step-by-Step:
Step 1: Signal Amplification: A thief, positioned near your house or where you typically keep your keys, uses a device to amplify the signal emitted by your key fob.
Step 2: Signal Relay: This amplified signal is then relayed to a second thief standing near your car.
Step 3: Vehicle Access and Start-Up: The car receives the relayed signal and believes the legitimate key is nearby. This allows the thieves to unlock the doors, get inside, and start the engine, all within seconds.
This entire process can take as little as 20-30 seconds, making it a swift and silent method of car theft. The thieves only need to be within a few meters of your keys to capture the signal, making homes, driveways, and even public parking spaces vulnerable.
Why You Need an Anti Scan Car Key Holder
An anti scan car key holder is a simple yet highly effective tool in preventing relay theft. These holders, often referred to as Faraday bags or signal blocking pouches, are designed to block electromagnetic fields, including the radio waves emitted by your key fob.
How Anti Scan Car Key Holders Work:
Anti scan car key holders are typically made from materials lined with metallic fabrics like copper or nickel. These materials create a Faraday cage effect when the pouch is properly closed. A Faraday cage is an enclosure that blocks electromagnetic fields. By placing your key fob inside an anti scan car key holder, you effectively isolate it from relay devices, preventing thieves from capturing and amplifying its signal.
Benefits of Using an Anti Scan Car Key Holder:
- Effective Signal Blocking: Provides a reliable barrier against signal amplification devices used in relay theft.
- Affordable Security: Compared to other car security measures, anti scan car key holders are a cost-effective solution, often priced from just a few dollars.
- 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.
- Portable and Discreet: Small and lightweight, easily fits in pockets, bags, or drawers.
- Versatile Protection: Some pouches also block WiFi and Bluetooth signals, offering added privacy for mobile phones and other devices.
Beyond Anti Scan Car Key Holders: Additional Car Security Tips
While an anti scan car key holder is a primary defense against relay theft, combining it with other security measures can create a more robust security system for your vehicle.
1. Disable Keyless Fob Signal (If Possible):
Some car models allow you to manually disable the keyless entry signal on your fob. Consult your car’s manual or contact the manufacturer to see if this feature is available. Disabling the signal when not in use adds an extra layer of security.
2. Utilize Steering Wheel Locks and Car Alarms:
Physical deterrents like steering wheel locks are still effective against car theft. They provide a visible barrier and make it significantly harder for thieves to steal your car, even if they bypass the keyless system. Car alarms, especially those approved by security standards like Sold Secure, can also deter thieves and potentially lower your car insurance premiums.
3. Park Strategically:
Parking your car in a garage overnight is ideal, as it increases the distance between your car and potential thieves attempting to intercept your key fob signal. If a garage isn’t available, park in well-lit areas or as close to your property as possible.
4. Consider Home Security Upgrades:
Enhancing your home security can also protect your car. Install outdoor motion sensor lighting and CCTV cameras to deter thieves and monitor your property. A well-lit environment and visible security cameras can discourage criminals.
5. VIN Etching:
Etching your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto your car windows, headlights, and mirrors makes it harder for thieves to resell your car or its parts. It adds a layer of difficulty for criminals trying to change the identity of your vehicle.
6. Keep Your Car Tidy and Valuables Hidden:
While not directly related to keyless theft, keeping your car tidy and hiding valuables prevents opportunistic break-ins, which can sometimes precede more sophisticated theft attempts.
7. Reprogram Keys for Second-Hand Vehicles:
If you purchase a used car, consider having the keys reprogrammed by a certified locksmith. This ensures that any previous owners’ keys are no longer valid, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
8. Be Aware of Car Models at Risk:
Certain car models with keyless entry systems have been identified as more vulnerable to relay theft. Research your car model’s security rating and be particularly vigilant if your car is on the list of potentially at-risk vehicles. Thatcham Research and ADAC (General German Automobile Club) have conducted tests and published lists of vehicles that have passed or failed keyless entry security tests.
Choosing the Right Anti Scan Car Key Holder
When selecting an anti scan car key holder, consider these factors to ensure you get a product that effectively protects your car keys:
- Material Quality: Look for pouches made with high-quality metallic lining, such as multiple layers of copper or nickel fabric, for optimal signal blocking.
- Closure Type: Ensure the pouch has a secure closure, such as a double-layered Velcro flap or a clasp, to completely seal the key fob inside and prevent signal leakage.
- Size and Capacity: Choose a pouch that is large enough to comfortably fit your key fob and any spare keys you want to protect.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Opt for reputable brands and read customer reviews to assess the pouch’s effectiveness and durability.
- Testing: Some manufacturers claim their pouches are tested to block specific frequencies. While not always necessary, this can provide added assurance. You can also test your pouch at home by placing your key fob inside, closing it securely, and then attempting to open your car door. If the pouch is working correctly, your car should not detect the key fob signal.
Anti Scan Car Key Holder: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will putting car keys in a tin foil block the signal?
A: Storing your key fob in a metallic tin or wrapping it in aluminum foil might offer some level of signal blocking. However, it is not as reliable or convenient as using a purpose-designed anti scan car key holder. Metallic containers may not completely enclose the key or provide consistent shielding. Faraday bags are specifically engineered for this purpose and offer a much more dependable solution.
Q: Where should I keep my car keys at night to prevent keyless theft?
A: The best practice is to store your car keys inside an anti scan car key holder and place them as far away from doors and windows as possible, ideally in a central location within your home.
Q: Will my car insurance cover keyless car theft?
A: Most car insurance policies cover theft, including keyless car theft. However, insurers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys for the stolen vehicle. It’s always recommended to check with your insurance provider to understand your specific policy coverage regarding keyless car theft.
Q: Are car manufacturers doing anything to prevent keyless car theft?
A: Yes, car manufacturers are increasingly implementing preventative measures. Some are introducing motion sensor key fobs that go into “sleep mode” after a period of inactivity, preventing signal relay. Others are incorporating enhanced security features into their keyless entry systems. Kia, for instance, has even provided Faraday bags to customers in some markets.
Q: Are vans also at risk of keyless theft?
A: Yes, vans with keyless entry systems are also vulnerable to relay theft. Reports indicate a rise in keyless van thefts, particularly targeting models like Ford Transits.
Q: What is the future of relay theft prevention?
A: Law enforcement and security experts are working with car manufacturers to develop more robust security measures to combat relay theft. In the meantime, using an anti scan car key holder remains a highly recommended and practical step for car owners to protect their vehicles.
Take Action: Secure Your Keys and Protect Your Car
Keyless car theft is a real and present threat, but you don’t have to be a victim. Investing in an anti scan car key holder is a simple, affordable, and effective way to safeguard your vehicle from relay attacks. Combine this with other security tips outlined in this article for comprehensive protection and peace of mind. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action today to secure your keys and protect your car from keyless theft.
For further advice on car security and anti-theft measures, consult with a certified automotive locksmith in your area.
Find a local car locksmith for security advice
Recommended Reading:
- Faraday/Signal Blocking Pouch Guide
- Best Signal Blocking Pouches Guide
- Hundreds of popular cars ‘at risk of keyless theft’ – BBC News
- Keyless Cars Tested by ADAC (PDF)
