22/08/2023
The theft of cars with keyless entry systems is accelerating rapidly and now accounts for approximately 94 per cent of all thefts, according to research. Keyless entry and starting may offer drivers the ultimate convenience, but there’s little benefit if these systems can be easily bypassed by criminals. Therefore, vehicle owners must take action to protect their assets and frustrate thieves’ efforts to gain unauthorised access to their cars.
Here are some sensible and simple tips to share with you to help you keep your vehicles safe:
Use A Steering Wheel Lock.
A physical anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel lock, is an effective way to prevent thieves from stealing a vehicle. A simple and low-cost option, a steering wheel lock is a visible deterrent that can discourage potential thieves from targeting your vehicles. Engineered from steel or titanium and secured with a strong locking mechanism, these devices are virtually impossible to break without a prolonged and determined effort.
Keep Keys Secure.
While it’s not exactly rocket science, keeping keys in a safe place at home can make it much less likely that a car will be stolen. It’s essential to avoid leaving keys lying in easily accessible areas, such as hanging on a hook just inside the front door, where they can be ‘fished’ through the letterbox using a length of wire. Additionally, we would advise you to keep the keys out of range of the car to prevent ‘relay attacks,’ in which thieves amplify the key’s signal to gain unauthorised access.
Park In A Secure Location.
We would encourage you to park your vehicles in secure locations whenever possible. A garage or a car park with CCTV surveillance is an ideal choice. If parking on the street, we would recommend that you choose a well-lit area with high foot traffic. Thieves are less likely to target cars in areas where they cannot work under the cover of darkness and may be spotted.
Install A Tracking System.
Installing a GPS tracking system can be a valuable way for you to increase the chances of recovering your vehicle if it is stolen. While many modern vehicles come with built-in tracking, you should be advised to check if your car has this feature. A tracker can help to locate the vehicle in the event of theft and support police to identify the perpetrators.
Check For Software Updates.
You should regularly check for software updates from your car’s manufacturer for the keyless entry system, as this may include additional security features that can help to prevent theft. Staying up to date with the latest software can significantly enhance the car’s security.
Use A Signal-Blocking Pouch.
One of the cheapest and best ways to prevent keyless car theft is to use a signal-blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag, to store key fobs when they’re not in use. These pouches make it difficult for thieves to intercept the key’s signal and use it to gain access to the vehicle. It’s a simple yet effective way to protect against relay attacks which are becoming more common as criminals devise increasingly complex ways of acquiring vehicle entry data.
Contact Us To Find Out More
At JD Keys, we have a comprehensive range of car keys, replacement fobs, and reprogramming equipment. Please get in touch if you have any questions.
