Keyless car theft, often referred to as relay theft or signal scanning, is a growing concern for car owners. This sophisticated method allows thieves to exploit the technology in keyless entry systems, potentially driving off with your vehicle in mere seconds. Understanding how to protect your car keys from being scanned is crucial in today’s world to safeguard your vehicle and prevent becoming a victim of this modern crime. This guide will delve into effective strategies and practical tips to help you shield your car keys and deter keyless car theft.
Understanding Keyless Car Theft: How Scanning Works
Keyless car theft, also known as relay theft or relay crime, 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 – as long as the key fob is nearby. However, this convenience comes with a security vulnerability. Thieves exploit this vulnerability by using readily available technology to intercept and amplify the signal emitted by your car key fob.
Step-by-step process of keyless car theft:
- Signal Interception: A thief, positioned near your home or wherever your keys are located, uses a device to capture the radio frequency signal emitted by your key fob.
- Signal Relay: This captured signal is then relayed to a second thief standing near your car.
- Vehicle Deception: The relayed signal tricks your car into thinking that the actual key fob is in close proximity.
- Unauthorized Access: The car unlocks, and the ignition system is disabled, allowing the thieves to start the engine and drive away, all without ever needing your physical key.
Cars equipped with keyless entry systems are particularly vulnerable to relay theft, a sophisticated method of signal scanning and amplification.
This entire process can be alarmingly quick, often taking just 20 to 30 seconds. Thieves only need to be within a few meters of your car keys to successfully capture the signal, highlighting the importance of proper key protection. The devices used in keyless car theft are specialist electronic equipment designed to capture and transmit these key fob signals.
If your car requires you to physically press a button on the key fob to unlock it, you are not at risk from this specific type of “relay” attack. Keyless entry systems are identifiable as they allow you to open and start your car with the key fob remaining in your pocket or bag.
Top Methods to Protect Your Car Keys From Scanning
Fortunately, there are several effective methods you can employ to protect your car keys from being scanned and prevent keyless car theft. Here are some actionable tips:
1. Use a Signal Blocking Pouch (Faraday Bag)
One of the most effective and straightforward ways to protect your car keys from being scanned is by using a signal blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag or pouch. These pouches are lined with metallic materials designed to block electromagnetic fields, effectively preventing your key fob from transmitting its signal.
By placing your car keys inside a Faraday bag, you create a barrier that stops thieves from intercepting the signal. This simple yet powerful measure can significantly reduce the risk of relay theft. Signal blocking pouches are readily available online and at automotive stores, and they are a worthwhile investment for any keyless car owner.
A signal blocking pouch, often called a Faraday bag, provides a secure shield for your key fob, preventing signal interception by car thieves.
These pouches are also surprisingly affordable, often costing as little as £5, making them an accessible security solution for everyone. Beyond car keys, Faraday bags can also be used to block Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals on mobile phones, offering additional digital security benefits.
2. Deactivate Keyless Fob Wireless Signal
Some keyless car fobs have a feature that allows you to manually deactivate the wireless signal when not in use. This feature, if available on your key fob, provides an extra layer of security against keyless car theft.
To determine if your key fob has this deactivation capability, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. The manual should provide instructions on how to enable or disable the wireless signal. If you cannot find information in your manual, contacting your car manufacturer directly is recommended. They can advise on whether your fob has this feature and how to use it. Disabling the signal when you are at home or in a safe location effectively eliminates the risk of signal scanning during those times.
3. Employ Physical Security Measures
While electronic signal blocking is crucial, physical security measures can also play a significant role in deterring keyless car theft.
Steering Wheel Locks: Steering wheel locks are mechanical devices that physically lock the steering wheel, preventing the car from being steered. In an age where many car thieves are technologically focused, these traditional devices can act as a strong visual and physical deterrent. Look for steering wheel locks with third-party approvals, such as “Sold Secure,” which indicates the product has been tested against common criminal tools.
A steering wheel lock provides a robust physical barrier, acting as a visible deterrent and preventing keyless car theft by immobilizing the steering system.
Car Alarms: Installing or ensuring you have a functioning car alarm system is another effective deterrent. While it may not directly prevent signal scanning, a car alarm can scare off thieves attempting to steal your car, especially if they are trying to operate quickly and discreetly. Furthermore, having a car alarm can sometimes reduce your car insurance premiums. Check with your insurer to ensure the alarm system is approved for potential discounts. For even greater security and potential insurance benefits, consider installing a professionally fitted immobilizer.
4. Secure Parking Practices
Where you park your car can significantly impact its vulnerability to keyless car theft.
Garage Parking: Parking your car in a garage overnight is an ideal security measure. It physically isolates your car, increasing the distance and obstacles between your vehicle and potential thieves attempting to intercept your key fob signal.
Defensive Driveway Parking: If you don’t have a garage, park your car on your driveway as close to your house as possible. This reduces accessibility for thieves and increases the risk of detection.
Home Security Upgrades: Enhance your overall home security to further protect your car. Consider installing outdoor motion detector lighting and CCTV cameras. Well-lit areas and visible security cameras can deter potential thieves. If you park on the street, try to choose well-lit areas. Consulting a local locksmith for a home security check can provide tailored advice on upgrading your outdoor security measures.
5. VIN Etching
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) etching is a process of engraving your car’s VIN or registration number onto the windows, headlights, and mirrors. This measure makes it significantly more difficult for thieves to sell or dispose of your car, as altering the vehicle’s identity becomes a much more complex and risky undertaking. VIN etching acts as a deterrent, as thieves may opt for less identifiable targets.
6. Keep Your Car Tidy and Valuables Hidden
While not directly related to key scanning, keeping your car tidy and free of visible valuables can reduce your risk of becoming a target for thieves in general. Avoid leaving electronic devices, such as Sat Navs and mobile phones, in plain sight. Keep your glove box clear and consider leaving it open to show there is nothing of value inside. Even suction cup marks from Sat Navs on your windscreen can indicate the presence of valuable devices, so clean these away. Reducing the visible temptation can make your car less appealing to opportunistic thieves, including those employing keyless theft methods.
7. Secure Lost Car Keys and Reprogram if Necessary
If you lose your car keys, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent potential theft. Contact a local, licensed auto locksmith immediately. They can reprogram your car’s system to ensure that the lost keys can no longer be used to access or start your vehicle. This will prevent anyone who finds your lost keys from using them to steal your car.
In the event of lost car keys, contacting an auto locksmith for reprogramming is essential to prevent unauthorized access and potential keyless car theft.
8. Reprogram Second-hand Car Keys When Purchasing Used Vehicles
When buying a second-hand vehicle, there’s always a risk that not all sets of keys have been handed over by the previous owner. To ensure your security, it’s advisable to have the car keys reprogrammed. This will invalidate any keys held by previous owners, preventing them from potentially accessing your vehicle. While manufacturer reprogramming can be expensive, using an auto locksmith is generally a more cost-effective solution for this security measure.
Reprogramming car keys, especially when acquiring a used vehicle, adds a crucial layer of security against unauthorized access and potential keyless theft from previous owners.
Are Certain Car Models More Vulnerable to Keyless Scanning?
Any car equipped with a keyless entry system is potentially vulnerable to relay crime. Popular car models, such as the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Golf, Nissan Qashqai, and Ford Focus, have been identified as being at risk. Research conducted by organizations like the General German Automobile Club (ADAC) has highlighted the widespread vulnerability, with studies showing that a significant majority of keyless cars tested could be unlocked and started using relay theft techniques.
Thatcham, a UK-based automotive research center, introduced a security rating for keyless entry cars to assess their resistance to relay theft. In their 2019 testing, some models demonstrated superior security, while others failed to meet the standard.
Keyless Entry Vehicle Models Passing Thatcham’s Relay Attack 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 |
Keyless Entry Vehicle Models Failing Thatcham’s Relay Attack 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 tests underscore that while keyless entry systems offer convenience, the level of security against relay theft can vary significantly between car models.
Keyless Car Theft – Frequently Asked Questions
Does putting car keys in a tin block the signal?
Storing your car key fob in a metallic tin may offer some level of signal blocking. Metal can act as a Faraday cage, potentially hindering signal transmission. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the type of metal and the enclosure’s completeness. It is recommended to test the tin’s effectiveness to ensure it reliably blocks the signal. For guaranteed signal blocking, a dedicated signal blocking pouch (Faraday bag) is a more reliable solution.
Where should I keep my car keys at night to prevent scanning?
To minimize the risk of keyless car theft, the best practice is to store your car keys in a signal blocking pouch (Faraday bag) overnight. Additionally, keep your keys as far away from doors and windows as possible, as thieves typically attempt to intercept signals from outside your home.
Will My Car Insurance Cover Keyless Car theft?
Most comprehensive car insurance policies will cover theft, including instances of keyless car theft. However, insurers may require proof that you still possess all sets of keys for the stolen vehicle. It is always advisable to check the specifics of your car insurance policy and confirm coverage for keyless theft with your insurer.
Are Car Manufacturers taking preventative measures against keyless car theft?
Yes, some car manufacturers are actively implementing preventative measures to combat keyless car theft. Kia, for example, has provided Faraday bags to customers. Manufacturers like Ford, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes have introduced motion sensor key fobs. These fobs enter a sleep mode after a period of inactivity, typically around 40 seconds, which prevents signal relay attacks when the fob is stationary.
Are Vans also at risk of Keyless Theft?
Yes, vans are also vulnerable to keyless theft. Reports indicate a rise in keyless van thefts, with models like the Ford Transit being particularly targeted. Van owners should also take preventative measures to protect their vehicles from relay attacks.
What is the future of Relay theft prevention?
Efforts are ongoing to combat relay theft. Automotive security experts and law enforcement agencies are collaborating with car manufacturers to develop more robust security solutions. In the meantime, using readily available preventative measures like Faraday pouches remains a crucial step in protecting your vehicle.
Have a Question about Keyless Car theft?
If you have further concerns or questions about keyless car theft, or need advice on protecting your vehicle, please don’t hesitate to contact us or consult with a licensed car locksmith in your area for expert guidance.
Contact us about keyless car theft
Find nearest car locksmith for advice
