Cars Are Still Being Stolen With Keys Inside
In the past few years the last few years, a car was stolen with keys inside every 32 seconds. This is not an instance of criminality based on opportunism.
This is a growing issue, especially for owners of luxurious cars. The thieves often work in pairs. One person holds an amplifier relay while the other walks with their transmitter through your driveway.
Keys
The good news is that overall car thefts have decreased in the last year. However, the downside is, cars with keys still get stolen. This kind of crime is especially threatening because it usually occurs in the open and when people are not expecting it. People who have lost their keys or had them stolen must to take steps to secure their vehicle.
Take a look in your purse, pockets and any other bags you may have, especially if you think they might contain valuables. Sometimes, you'll find your keys in places you didn't think of, such as the pockets of your pants or jacket when you ran. If you can't find your keys, look around other places that you have used them, like at home or at work. This will give you an idea of where they might be hiding.
If you own a newer vehicle, you'll have to contact your dealership or automaker to request replacement keys. These keys contain special chips that need to be re-sequenced to the car's computer. You will also need to purchase the new key barrels that come with the new keys. They are expensive but they are a good investment in the security of your car.
Additionally, you should immediately call the police to make a report. This will assist the police investigate and possibly catch the thief as well as help if you have to file an insurance claim. The majority of insurance companies require an official police report to pay for the replacement of your keys or other items.
Installing a car tracker or alarm could help prevent your vehicle being stolen, even if you own the keys. These devices can deter thieves, and in some cases, stop them from beginning your vehicle, making it more difficult to take it away. Some of these devices are also connected to your mobile and can notify you when they are tampered with or moved without your consent.
Remotes
When you lock your car with the key fob, it sends an alarm to alert anyone who might steal your car that the vehicle is secure. But that's only the first layer of security.
Thieves can still capture this signal and use it to open the door and then start the engine and drive away. In fact, they can do this on virtually every vehicle with a smart key or push-to-start ignition.
It's a straightforward hack known as code grabbing, or "key cloning," which is the use of an electronic device that detects the signal sent by your key fob and transmits it to another device that fools the car into thinking the real digital key is close by. This is a straightforward technique that can be performed by a maintenance worker in an area with a gated. The devices for this type of attack are readily available online or at your local electronics store.
Another new method of theft targets the controller area network (CAN) which allows the sensors and control modules in modern cars to communicate with one another. By disconnecting the headlight and connecting the device to the CAN, thieves are able to steal the data needed to unlock your car, or even control it while you're driving it along the highway.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau reports that, while the latest advanced, more sophisticated keyless entry systems, which are now the norm in many keys stolen automobiles, could help reduce this type crime However, they have witnessed a 20% rise in the theft of cars where keys and remotes were kept inside. The NICB recommends locking your vehicle at all times even if you're just warming it up in the driveway or making a stop for gas or coffee.
Beware of the fads that are making the rounds like putting your key fob in the microwave or freezer to block its signal. It's not foolproof, and is only a deterrent to the most determined thieves. You should also consider having your remote reset if you buy a second-hand model. Most auto locksmiths and dealers can do this fast and at a cost that is affordable. However certain experts advise against it if you intend to sell your car.
Locks
If you've ever woken up in the morning, headed out to the car and then realized it's disappeared, you're aware of how terrible it feels. Especially when you haven't heard your alarm go off or noticed any telltale indications of intrusion, it could seem like your car has vanished overnight. Fortunately, the worst part is over, but there's the issue of regaining it!
As technology has developed and advanced, thieves have modified their methods of stealth. In the movies, you might have seen thieves wiring cars. However, the majority of thieves use technology to hack keyless entry systems. This means that thieves are able to unlock your vehicle and then drive it away.
To do this, a thief can buy a device that can capture the signal sent by the key fob in your car. The thief will then transmit the signal to a device that unlocks your car which allows him to start it and drive away. This is referred to as relay attacks and criminal gangs are increasingly using this method.
It is possible to stop this from happening. One option is to have a key lock protector installed, which blocks signals from your car's key fob. This is a low-cost solution that is simple to install and can help you protect your vehicle from thieves. Another option is to install a tracker in your vehicle, which can help to locate your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
You should also make sure that you inquire with your insurance company, as certain insurers offer coverage for key protection and may provide a replacement in the case of theft. Make sure to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover key protection. Some insurers may even offer a replacement if keys are stolen.
You can also install a brake or steering wheel lock to prevent thieves from driving your car away. On the internet, you can purchase these at a bargain cost and they're easily adjustable to fit most cars. Wheel locks can be used on both vehicles, if you own two cars. There are also locks for the pedals that can stop a thief from operating the clutch or brake pedals.
Alarms
The alarms are constructed so that they will sound when someone is trying to steal your car. They typically emit the sound of a loud, piercing ring that will scare off most thieves and draw the attention of anyone who is in the vicinity. Many thieves are becoming technologically adept and are able to quickly shut off alarms. This keeps them from being alerted by any suspicious activity in their environment and allows them to steal the vehicle while the owner is trying to unlock it.
Alarms are standard on modern vehicles, and are a great way of preventing theft. Alarms can be activated with the key fob, or even the physical key, and they will check the vehicle for vibrations or movements. If they find that something is wrong they will sound the siren and may flash the lights.
Some alarms are programmed to only trigger in specific situations like when the air pressure changes in the vehicle. This is designed to prevent thieves from breaking windows in order to steal the rims. This sensor can react to events that are not related, such as earthquakes or tracks that pass through a poorly constructed parking lot.
A certain type of alarm will sound when the ignition of the vehicle has been altered. This is a helpful feature, but it can be susceptible to false alarms. This is especially true if the vehicle is parked in a narrow alley or dark location where pedestrians might accidentally hit the vehicle.
There are other ways to stop your car from being stolen using keys. This includes tyre locks as well as steering wheel locks and a Faraday bag that blocks the signal from the car to the key fob. It is important to report the theft to police as quickly as you can and they will be able to provide you with a crime reference number that can help them find the culprits and retrieve your vehicle. It is also an excellent idea to look into obtaining key care coverage from your insurance company which will cover the cost of replacing your key fob and re-programming the immobiliser.