15 Best Documentaries On Car Stolen Keyless Entry
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Keyless Entry and Car Theft
Car theft is increasing, and thieves have found new ways to gain access to vehicles. One of the most popular methods is keyless entry.
The days of stealing cars through breaking windows and hotwiring them are over. Now they can hack into the computer systems of a vehicle in minutes.
Relay Attack
Since the introduction to the Push-to Start technology, millions have been able to be in a position to start their cars without needing to search for a car key. However, this same convenience makes vehicles more vulnerable. In particular thieves have been able use a new technique called the relay attack to steal cars within seconds. This method makes use of a device to record and amplify the signal through your car's key fob, permitting thieves to unlock the car and drive away.
The relay attack is a variation of an older method known as Man-in the-Middle attacks. This type of attack is employed in cybersecurity to alter and intercept the communication between two entities without either party realizing it. In the scenario of a relay attack, the attacker uses a device to record the signal from your car's key fob and then transmits that signal to a different device that is nearby. This second device will unlock the door and start the engine of your vehicle in just a few just a few seconds.
Criminals can perform a relay attack by using a cheap and readily accessible device to detect the signal from an electronic key fob. Most often, thieves operate in pairs. One person will hold the amplifier for relay while the other stands outside near the victim's home. The thief swizzles the device in the direction of the home of the victim, luring the car into believing that the key is in close proximity.
To stop this type of theft, some experts recommend that you store your key fob when it is not in use in a metal container or pouch. This is a simple but ineffective solution against modern relay devices. The best option is to purchase a steering wheel lock, that physically blocks the thief's ability to steer the vehicle once it is stolen.
Many vehicle manufacturers have attempted to tackle this problem by introducing features such as secure keyless entry systems that rely on cryptographic methods and time-sensitive codes to protect against relay attacks. However, criminals have been able to create devices that can defeat these measures. In the end, the race is on to discover a way to stop criminals who use relays without compromising the convenient nature of technology that is keyless.
Hacking
Many new cars are fitted with keyless entry systems which let drivers open and start their vehicle without the need for a physical key or button. However, these systems can be susceptible to a new type of theft. Thieves could utilize electronic devices to copy the signal from the key fob and send it to a transmitter carried by an accomplice who is close to the vehicle. The thief is then able to unlock the vehicle and drive away. According to AAA the method is referred to as relay attack. It can be completed in 20 to 30 second.
Often, thieves can make use of inexpensive devices that mimic wireless key fob signals to collect the signal and send it to an accomplice. The thief can then pretend to be the owner of the car when the victim presses the key fob to begin or lock the vehicle. They accomplish this by sending a message that appears to the car's computer as an authentic signal.
The more sophisticated thieves have developed devices that plug into the On-Board Diagnostics port (OBD), which is located usually under the steering wheel. This port permits mechanics to connect diagnostic tools. The thief is then able to download information from the car's computer and create a blank key fob that is compatible with the specifications of the car. This kind of hacking is possible on virtually all cars.
Some thieves have employed TikTok challenges as a way to instruct people on how to build cheap amplifiers which boost the signal from the key fob, making it possible for an accomplice to unlock the car even when it is in the driveway. This method has led companies like Kia to issue software updates that eliminate the vulnerability.
Experts suggest keeping your car keys farther away from your home, even in the trunk, so thieves have a difficult time accessing the keys. You can also purchase RFID pouches to help shield the signal from unauthorized use. Some of these pouches come with metal mesh linings, and are available on the low end for about $10. Just like your phone and computer, it's important to keep the software in your car up-to-date.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Cards
The most recent car key fobs use radio signals to deactivate stolen car key fob communicate with the vehicle, allowing owners to unlock their vehicles and start them without having to touch a key. Unfortunately, these new technologies also increase the chance of theft. Thieves can steal the signal from a key fob when it is placed on a table near the front door of the house or in a pocket and they can clone the signal with simple devices that are the size of handheld gaming consoles called emulators. Once they have it, they can open the car and drive it away in just a few minutes.
Typically, crooks operate in pairs. The crooks usually work in pairs. One will stand outside of your house equipped with a relay amplifier and the other will be equipped with a device that records a signal from a keyfob. The crooks can then amplify the signal to ensure it is strong enough to disable the security systems in your car.
Another popular tactic involves simply jamming the communication between the key fob and the vehicle. Thieves use signal jammers that emit the same radio frequency as the key fob. The signal is blocked and blocks it from being picked up by the vehicle. The lock button is not working.
Dealers of automobiles must be vigilant to guard their inventory as thieves become more sophisticated. Dealerships need to implement high-security perimeter fencing with cameras and a secure entrance so that thieves can't drive in flatbeds with vehicles after hours. They should also train employees on proper methods of handling keys, including securely locking cars and storing them in a safe location when not being used.
Fortunately, technology can help stop car thefts and combat these new thieves. Certain car makers are creating keyfobs with active RFID chips and frequency-hopping technology that makes it more difficult for thieves to amplify the signal of the keys. Faraday cages are a different way to prevent signals from a keyfob to the car. Other defenses include etching last seven digits of your vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto the headlights, windows, and mirrors to stop reuse or re-sale of your vehicle.
Theft of VIN
Keyless entry is useful, but it also provides new opportunities for thieves to steal vehicles. If your car recognizes the signal that is sent by your wireless key or remote fob, it will unlock the door and begin the engine. However, if the signal isn't recognized, your car will still lock, but it will not start. This is because you need to hold the key in your hand to press an appropriate button on the fob in order to start the starter.
This is why it's essential to keep your remote and key fob out of view even when your car is parked. A criminal can use a small transmitter to intercept your signal and then steal it. He will then be able to open your door without touching the ignition or key.
Criminals can even swap out the VIN and the title of a stolen vehicle to hide their involvement. This practice is known as VIN switching and is on increasing. The thieves usually purchase damaged vehicles at auction or from the police department and then alter the VIN. They then make use of a valid VIN from a different model and make the purchase of a brand new registration and title, and then sell the car to unwitting buyers.
The VIN is a popular way to deter theft. Many companies provide kits for this, and in a few areas, the police department or AAA offers this service at no cost. It may seem strange to believe that etching can deter thieves. After all, it makes it more difficult for dealers to purchase your car. However, a professional criminal is aware that etching is an important stumbling block and will probably deter them from taking your car.
The NICB also provides a free VINCheck online service that will determine whether your vehicle is reported as salvaged or stolen but has not yet been recovered. The service requires an authentic VIN to conduct a search and is available through their website. In addition, a wide assortment of security products available for your car as well as visible and audible devices that act as a deterrent for criminals. Some of them include the locking of your steering wheel, alarms and window etching.