Cars Are Still Being Stolen With Keys Inside
In the last few years in the past few years, a vehicle has been taken with keys inside every 32 seconds. This isn't just an instance of criminality based on opportunism.
This is a problem that is growing especially for those who own luxurious cars. Thieves often work in pairs. One is armed with a relay amplifier while the other is walking through your driveway using a transmitter device.
Keys
The good news is that overall car thefts have decreased over the past year. However, the downside is that cars with keys are still being stolen. This type of crime is especially troubling because it occurs in broad daylight, and people aren't aware of it. Those who have lost their keys, or had them stolen need to take steps to secure their vehicles.
The first thing you need to do is look over your pockets, purse, and all bags you carry in your possession, particularly those that might contain valuables. Sometimes you will discover keys in places you didn't think of include, such as in the pockets of your pants or jacket if you went running. If you are unable to locate your keys, search other places you may have used them, such as at work or at home. This will help you find them.
If you have a newer vehicle, you'll have to contact your dealer or automaker to request replacement keys. Keys with special chips that need to be re-sequenced to the car's computer. You will also have to purchase new key barrels for the new keys. These are expensive, but an investment in the safety of your car is well worth it.
You should also call the police right away to file a complaint. This will allow the police to investigate and possibly track down the thief, and it will also be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim. The majority of insurance companies require an official police report to cover the cost of replacing your keys or other items.
Installing a car tracker or alarm could help stop your car from being stolen, even if you have the keys. These devices will stop thieves from entering your car and, in some instances they can stop them from getting the car started which makes it more difficult to take it away. Some of these devices are also connected to your mobile and can send you alerts when they are tampered with or moved without your permission.
Remotes
When you lock your car using the key fob, it emits an alarm to alert anyone who might steal your car that the vehicle is secure. This is only the first of many layers of security.
The criminals are able to capture this signal and use it to unlock the door, starting the engine, and driving away. They can do this with virtually every vehicle with smart keys or an ignition that is push-to-start.
It's a simple hack called code grabbing or "key cloning," which is a device that detects the signal being sent from your key fob, then transmits it to another device that fools the car into thinking that the actual digital key is nearby. This is a simple technique that can be performed by a maintenance person at the gated community. The devices for this type of attack are readily available online or in your local electronics retailer.
A new method of theft targets controller area networks (CAN), a network that allows sensors and control modules to communicate in modern vehicles. By disconnecting the headlight and connecting a device to the CAN, thieves can steal the data needed to unlock your car, or even control it while you drive along the highway.
While the latest, more sophisticated keyless entry systems that are becoming standard on most vehicles may help reduce this type of crime, the National Insurance Crime Bureau has observed a 20% increase in thefts from cars with remotes and keys inside. The NICB recommends locking your vehicle at all times, even if you are just warming it up on the driveway or going to get gas or coffee.
Ignore the fads, like placing your key fob in the freezer or microwave to block the signal. It's not foolproof, and only works to deter the most determined of thieves. You should also consider having your vehicle's remote reprogrammed if you buy a second-hand model. Most dealers and auto locksmiths can do this fast and for a minimal cost. However, some experts advise against it if you intend to sell your car.
Locks
If you've ever woken up in the morning, walked out to your car, and then realized it's disappeared, you know just how horrible it is. Especially when you haven't heard your alarm go off or noticed any telltale signs of intrusion, it could appear as if your car disappeared overnight. The worst part is that the situation is over but you're still required to return your car back.
As technology has developed and advanced, thieves have modified their methods of stealth. In the movies, you might have seen thieves wiring cars. However, most thieves employ technology to hack keyless entry systems. This means that thieves are able to unlock your car and take it away.
A burglar could buy an online device that captures the signal from your car key fob. They then transmit that signal to another device that opens your car, allowing them start and drive it away. This is referred to as relay attacks and criminal gangs are increasingly using this method.
You can stop this from happening. One option is to have a key lock protector installed, which blocks the signals from your car's key fob. This is a cheap solution that is simple to install and can help protect your vehicle from thieves. Installing a tracker onto your vehicle is a different option. It helps you locate your vehicle in the event that it's stolen.
It is also recommended that you inquire with your insurance provider, since some insurers include cover for key protection and may provide a replacement in the event of theft. Check with your insurance provider to see if they provide key protection. Some insurers will offer a replacement if keys are stolen.
You can also fit a steering wheel lock or brake lock to prevent thieves from driving your car away. On the internet, you can purchase these for a low cost and they're easily adjustable to fit the majority of automobiles. Wheel locks can be used on both vehicles if you have two vehicles. There are also locks for the pedals that can prevent the thief operating the brake or clutch pedals.
Alarms
Car alarms are designed to trigger when someone attempts to gain entry into your vehicle. They usually make an ear-piercing, loud sound that will frighten thieves and draw the attention of anyone who is in the vicinity. Many thieves are becoming increasingly technologically proficient and know how to quickly shut off alarms. This prevents them from being alerted to any suspicious activity in their surroundings, and they can also get away with the car while the owner is out trying to unlock it.
Alarms are present on the majority of modern vehicles, and are a great way of preventing theft. Alarms are activated through the key fob or the physical key. They look over the vehicle and can detect movement or vibrations. If they detect that there is something wrong they will sound the siren and may flash the lights.
Some alarms are programmed so that they only activate in certain situations like when the air pressure changes in the vehicle. This is to deter thieves from breaking windows to steal wheels. The sensor is able to react to events that are completely unrelated, like earthquakes, or tracks that pass through a poorly built parking lot.
Another type of alarm is one that will be activated if the vehicle's ignition has been damaged. This is a helpful feature, but it can be susceptible to false triggers. This is particularly true if the vehicle get more info has been placed in a dark area where pedestrians could accidentally hit it.
There are other options to stop your car from being stolen using keys. These include tyre locks, steering wheel locks, and a Faraday bag that blocks the signal from the car to the key fob. Notifying the theft as quickly as you can to police is crucial. They will give you an identification number that will assist them in locating the culprits and recover your vehicle. It is also an excellent idea to look into obtaining key care cover from your insurance company that will pay for replacing your key fob as well as re-programming the immobiliser.