Keyless car theft: How it happens & what you can do to prevent it! 

The advancements in automotive technology have evolved significantly since the turn of the millennium. That includes the security systems that keep your car from getting stolen, and the classic key has been replaced with fancy fobs that can do a lot more than open doors. In fact, these systems offer keyless entry that sometimes don’t even need a physical fob – just walk up, pull the handle, and you’re in. But what if someone else could do the same thing… without your key? A report from The Guardian recently revealed that the car industry was warned about the risks of keyless entry systems being exploited by thieves, TEN years ago. Yet, despite this early warning, car theft rates continue to rise, with criminals using sophisticated techniques to bypass security measures. 

If you own a keyless car, understanding these sneaky theft methods and how to stop them is more important than ever.

How are the thieves breaking in?

These are a few ways thieves break into your car fitted with keyless entry technology. These are some of the most common ones: 

1. Relay attack – Extending the signal

The most common method of keyless car theft is a ‘relay attack.’ This technique involves two thieves working together with signal-boosting devices. One thief stands near the house, detecting the signal from the car key inside, while the other stands near the vehicle. The device amplifies the key’s signal, tricking the car into unlocking and starting as if the key were nearby. The entire process can take seconds, and the car is stolen without any signs of forced entry, or without tripping the car’s alarm.

2. Headlight hacking – A high-tech entry point

Some criminals have discovered vulnerabilities within a vehicle’s headlight wiring, which is often connected to the car’s electronic system. A Vice report highlighted how thieves in the US used a hacking tool disguised as a Nokia phone to access a Toyota RAV4’s network and start the engine. This method shows how interconnected vehicle systems can sometimes work against security.

3. Key cloning – copying the signal

With the right equipment, criminals can clone the signal of the car’s key fob and create a duplicate version. The Guardian reported that organised crime groups have been using high-tech devices, similar in size to handheld gaming consoles, to override smart key systems. These devices intercept and replicate the key’s frequency, allowing thieves to unlock and drive away without alerting the owner until it’s far too late.

4. OBD port attacks – Direct vehicle access

This one is a mix of orthodox and modern means of car theft. The Onboard Diagnostics (OBD) port is designed for mechanics to diagnose car issues, but if a thief gains access to it, they can manipulate the vehicle’s software, disable alarms, or even start the engine. In some cases, criminals break into the car and use a laptop or custom device to bypass the system.

5. Signal blocking – preventing the car from locking

Thieves can follow an unaware driver and use a signal-jamming device to block the key fob when the owner tries to lock their car. Thinking the car is locked or will lock itself as the driver walks away, the jammer leaves the vehicle’s doors open for criminals to steal valuables or drive away entirely.

How can you protect your car?

Thankfully, you don’t have to be a tech expert to outsmart these criminals. Here’s how to add extra layers of security:

• Use a faraday pouch: These signal-blocking pouches prevent thieves from relaying your key’s signal. It’s like those smart wallets that protect your NFC-enabled bank cards from being used while inside the wallet.
• Manually check your locks: Sometimes a solution to a modern problem is quite old-school. When locking your car, listen for the click or check for visual cues like mirror folding or indicator flashes to ensure it’s actually locked.
• Disable keyless entry: Some manufacturers let you switch off keyless access entirely – check your owner’s manual.
• Park smart: If possible, park in a locked garage or a well-lit, busy area. The harder you make it, the less attractive your car is to criminals.
• Consider a secondary immobiliser or tracking system: Only recently did cars come with an electronic immobiliser as part of the safety kit, that’s how the ‘Kia Boys’ were able to create chaos in the North American market. An additional security device or GPS tracker increases your chances of recovering the vehicle if it’s stolen.
• Use a steering lock or wheel clamp: If you live in a particularly troubled neighbourhood, you might need to take more extreme steps. It’s old-school, but it works. A visible deterrent makes thieves think twice.

Final thoughts

Car thieves are getting smarter, but that doesn’t mean they have to win. A few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to keyless car theft. Stay vigilant, take extra security steps, and don’t make it easy for the bad guys to drive off with your ride.