Cars Are Still Being Stolen With Keys Inside
In the past few years every 32 seconds, an automobile with keys inside has been taken. And this isn't an isolated incident.
This is a problem that is growing, especially for owners of luxury automobiles. The thieves usually operate in pairs. One person is holding an amplifier relay while the other carries their transmitter in your driveway.
Keys
The positive side is that generally speaking the number of car thefts has decreased in the last year -- but the bad news is that cars are still being taken with keys left inside. This type of crime can be particularly alarming because it happens in broad daylight, and people don't expect it. Those who lost their keys or had them stolen have to take steps to secure their vehicle.
Check your pockets, purse and any bags that you might have, particularly in the event that you suspect they contain valuables. Sometimes you'll find keys in places you didn't think of include, such as in the pockets of your jacket or pants in case you went for a run. If you cannot find your keys, check other places where you might have used them such as at work or home. This will help you to locate them.
If you own a newer car, you will need to contact the dealer or automaker to have replacement keys made. These keys have special chips that have to be re-sequenced with the car's computer. You will also need to purchase new key barrels that come with the new keys. They are costly however, a investment in your car's safety is worth it.
In addition, you should immediately contact the police to file a report. This will help the police investigate and possibly catch the thief, and it will also help if you have to make an insurance claim. Most insurance companies require an official police report to pay for the replacement of your keys as well as other things.
You should also think about installing a car alarm or tracking device to stop your car from being stolen even if you own keys. These devices can deter thieves, and even stop them from beginning your vehicle making it harder to steal. Some of these devices are connected to your mobile and can notify you when they are altered or moved without your consent.
Remotes
When you lock your car with the key fob, it sends signals to notify any potential thieves that your vehicle is secure. But that is just the beginning of many layers of protection.
Thieves could still intercept the signal and use it to unlock the door, start the engine, and then drive away. In fact, they could accomplish this on every vehicle with a smart key or push-to start ignition.
It's a simple hack called code grabbing, or "key cloning," which is the use of an electronic device that records the signal being sent from your key fob and transmits it to another device that tricked the car into thinking that the genuine digital key is nearby. This is a hack that can be done by a maintenance worker in an area with a gated. The devices used for this type attack are available online or at your local electronics store.
A new method of theft is targeting controller area networks (CAN) which is a system that allows sensors and control modules to communicate with modern cars. By removing the headlight and connecting the device to the CAN, thieves could get the information needed to unlock your car or even take over it while you drive along the highway.
While the latest, more sophisticated keyless entry systems that are now the norm on a lot of vehicles may help in reducing this kind of crime However, the National Insurance Crime Bureau has witnessed a 20 percent increase in thefts from cars with keys and remotes left inside. The NICB suggests that you always lock your vehicle even when it is parked in the driveway to warm it up, or when you stop for gas or a coffee.
Avoid the fads, such as placing your keyfob in a freezer or microwave to stop the signal. It's not foolproof, and is only a deterrent to most determined thieves. You should also consider having your remote reset if you buy a second-hand model. The majority of auto locksmiths and dealers can do this fast and inexpensively, though some experts advise against it if you plan to sell your car.
Locks
If you've ever woken up in the morning, walked to your car and then found it has disappeared, you know just how awful it feels. It's a bit shocking to find out that your car disappeared overnight, especially if you haven't heard the alarm or observed any indications of intrusion. The worst part of the situation is over but you'll need to return your car back.
The technology has changed 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, most criminals now employ technology to hack your keyless entry system. This means that thieves can unlock your car and then drive off.
To do this, a burglar can buy a device that can capture the signal sent by your car key fob. The thief then transmits the captured signal to a device that unlocks your car which allows him to start it and drive away. This is known as a relay attack and criminal gangs are increasingly using this technique.
You can prevent this from happening. One option is to get an extra key lock installed, which blocks the signals from your car's key fob. This is a simple, affordable way to guard your vehicle from thieves. Another option is to put a tracker in your vehicle, which can help to locate your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.
It's also a good idea to keep your keys somewhere else than in your car, and never put them in the ignition. It is also recommended that you consult with your insurance company because some insurance companies offer insurance for keys and will provide an replacement in the event of theft.
You can also put in an engine lock or brake lock to stop the thief driving away with your vehicle. On the internet, you can purchase these locks for a reasonable cost and they're easily adjustable to fit most cars. If you're a family with two cars wheel lock is able to be used on both vehicles. There are even locks for the pedals that can prevent thieves from using the brake and clutch pedals.
Alarms
The alarms are designed so that they will sound when someone tries to gain entry into your vehicle. They usually make an ear-piercing, loud sound that can frighten thieves and draw the attention of anyone who is in the vicinity. However, many thieves are becoming more and more technologically sophisticated, and they know how to shut off most alarms swiftly. This could prevent them from being alerted of anything suspicious in their surroundings, and they could also escape by stealing the vehicle even though the owner is outside trying to unlock it.
Alarms are standard on modern cars, making it an excellent method of preventing theft. These alarms can be activated using the key fob, or even the physical key, and they will look for any movement or vibrations. If they discover that something is wrong they will sound the siren and possibly flash the lights.
Some alarms can be programmed to activate in certain situations, for example when the pressure of air in the vehicle changes. This is to deter thieves from breaking windows to steal the wheels. However, the sensor may sometimes react to things which are totally unrelated like earthquakes or train tracks passing by the parking lot that is not well-constructed.
Another kind of alarm is one that will sound if the car's ignition has what to do if car keys stolen been damaged. This is a useful feature, but can also be susceptible to false triggers. This is particularly true if the vehicle is parked in an alleyway or dark spot where passersby can accidentally bump into the vehicle.
There are several other ways to protect your vehicle from being stolen using keys, such as the use of tyre clamps or steering wheel locks, as well as Faraday bags, which prevent the vehicle's signal from the key fob. Notifying the theft as quickly as you can to police is crucial. They will provide you with a reference number which will help them find the culprits and recover your vehicle. It is also an excellent idea to look into obtaining key care insurance from your insurance company that will pay for replacing your key fob and re-programming the immobiliser.