Cars Are Still Being Stolen With Keys Inside
In the past few years every 32 seconds, a car with the keys inside has been stolen. This is not just a case of opportunistic criminality.
This is a growing issue particularly for owners of luxury cars. The thieves often operate in pairs. One holds an amplifier relay while the other walks through your driveway using a transmitter device.
Keys
The good news is that overall car thefts have decreased over the past year. But the bad news is that keys-cars still get stolen. This kind of crime is particularly alarming because it usually occurs in the daylight hours and even when people aren't anticipating it. Those who have lost their keys or had them stolen must take precautions to secure their vehicles.
Examine your purse, pockets and any bags that you might have, particularly if you think they might contain valuables. Sometimes you will find keys in places you didn't anticipate be, like the pockets of your jacket or pants when you ran. If you are unable to locate your keys, search other places you could have used them like at home or work. This will help you locate them.
If you own a brand new vehicle, you'll need to contact your dealer or automaker for replacement keys. The keys are equipped with special chips that need to be re-sequenced to the vehicle's computer. Also, you will need to purchase the new key barrels that come with the new keys. These can be expensive however they are a good investment in the security of your vehicle.
In addition, you should immediately contact the police to file a report. This will enable the police to investigate and locate the thief. It will also help you if you want to submit an insurance claim. Insurance companies typically require the police report in order to pay for the replacement of your keys and other items.
Installing a vehicle tracking device or alarm can help to prevent your vehicle being stolen, even if you have the keys. These devices will deter thieves and, in certain cases they can stop them from beginning the car, making it harder to steal. Some of these devices are connected to your mobile and can send you alerts when they're altered or moved without your consent.
Remotes
When you lock your car with the key fob, it emits a signal to warn any potential thieves that your vehicle is secure. But that's just the first layer of security.
Thieves could still intercept that signal and use it to open the door, start the engine, and drive away. In fact, they could do this on virtually any vehicle that has a smart key or push-to start ignition.
It's a hack that is simple to implement. It's called code grabbing, or "key cloning" which involves an electronic device that detects the signal sent by your key fob, and then transmits it to another device that tricks the car into thinking that the genuine digital key is nearby. This is a straightforward hack that can be carried out by a maintenance worker at an area with a gated. The devices used for this kind of attack are available online or in your local electronics retailer.
Another method of theft is to target the controller area network (CAN) which allows sensors and control modules of modern cars to communicate with each other. By taking off the headlight and connecting a device to the CAN, thieves can take the information needed to unlock your car or even control it while you drive down the highway.
While the more sophisticated keyless entry systems that are becoming the norm on a lot of vehicles may aid in reducing this type of crime, the National Insurance Crime Bureau has seen a 20% increase in thefts from cars that have keys and remotes inside. The NICB recommends that you always secure your vehicle even when you park it in the driveway to warm it up, or when you stop for coffee or gas.
Don't fall for the hype, such as placing your keyfob in a freezer or in the microwave to stop the signal. It is not foolproof, and is only effective in deterring the most determined of thieves. It's also worth thinking about getting your car's key fob resettled, particularly when you purchase a secondhand one. Many auto locksmiths and dealers can do this fast and for a minimal cost. However some experts recommend against this if you are planning to sell your vehicle.
Locks
If you've ever woken in the morning, headed out to the car and then found it has disappeared, you're aware of how awful it feels. Particularly if you haven't heard your alarm go off or observed any indicators of intrusion, it can seem like your car has vanished overnight. Thankfully, the worst part is over, but there's still the issue of regaining it!
The technology has evolved and criminals have adapted to the latest methods of securing. Instead of using hotwires to hack into your car like you've seen in a movie, criminals now employ technology to hack your keyless entry system. This means that thieves can unlock your car and then drive it away.
A burglar could buy an online device that captures the signal from your key fob. The thief then transmits the signal to a device that opens your vehicle which allows the vehicle to start and drive off. This is known as relay attacks and criminal gangs are increasingly using this technique.
The good news is, you can take steps to stop it from happening to you. Installing a key lock protector that blocks signals from your car's key fob is a way to prevent this. This is a low-cost, easy solution that can aid in protecting your vehicle from thieves. Another option is to put a tracker in your vehicle, which can help to locate your car if it is stolen.
You should also make sure that you consult with your insurance company, as certain insurers offer coverage for key protection, and can offer an exchange in the case of theft. You should also make sure that you inquire with your insurance provider because some insurance companies offer insurance for key protection and may provide a replacement in the case of theft.
You can also install a brake or steering lock to stop thieves from stealing your car. Online, you can buy these for a low cost and they're easily adjustable to fit the majority of automobiles. If you have a couple of cars the wheel lock can be used on both vehicles. There are locks for the pedals, which could stop the thief from using the brake and clutch pedals.
Alarms
The alarms are made so that they will sound when someone is trying to gain entry into your vehicle. They emit a loud, cutting sound that frightens most thieves. Many thieves are becoming technologically proficient and know how to shut off alarms quickly. This keeps them from being aware of anything suspicious within their surroundings, and it also allows them to steal the vehicle while the owner is trying to unlock it.
Most modern cars are built with an alarm option and is a great way to avoid theft. Alarms can be activated using the key fob or physical key, and they monitor the vehicle for movement or vibrations. If they discover that something is wrong they will sound the siren, and then possibly flash the lights.
Some alarms can be programmed to be activated in certain scenarios such as when the pressure of air in the vehicle changes. This is to discourage thieves from breaking windows to steal the wheels. The sensor can respond to events that are not related, like earthquakes or train tracks passing through a poorly built parking lot.
A certain type of alarm will sound if the ignition of the car is tampered with. This is a useful feature, but it could be prone to false triggers. This is particularly true if the vehicle is parked in a narrow alley or a dark area where people can accidentally bump into the vehicle.
There are several other methods to protect your vehicle from being stolen with keys, including the use of tyre clamps or steering wheel locks, as well as Faraday bags, which stop the signal of the car from the key fob. It is crucial to report the theft website to police as soon as possible and they will be able to provide you with a crime reference number that will help them find the culprits and recover your vehicle. It is also advisable to consider getting the key care plan from your insurance company. It will pay for the replacement of the key fob and changing the immobiliser.