Beware of 7 "tricks" that car thieves often use to "hack" smart keys
Nowadays, the smart key system - Keyless Entry - is becoming more and more popular not only for cars but also for motorbikes. However, that does not prevent thieves from "looking" at the vehicle less.
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How to steal a car and hack the smart key system using a "relay box". |
According toMoneySupermarketOne factor contributing to the resurgence of car theft after a period of decline is the emergence of new technologies that allow them to "hack" smart key systems remotely, but are not widely known to the public.
Here are the 7 most common ways cars are stolen.
1. Hack smart key system with relay
Although normally the signal cannot reach the car if the owner leaves the keys inside, car thieves can use a 'relay box' to boost the signal from the key and mimic it exactly - causing the car to open and operate as normal.
How to avoid:Disable the signal from the key when not using the vehicle or keep the key in a safe that can block the signal from being transmitted outside.
2. Block car lock signal
Another commonly used method is to block the car's locking signal from the key - this means the car will remain unlocked while the owner is away and criminals can steal the car immediately.
How to avoid:Make sure to check manually to see if the car doors are locked, and even use a steering wheel lock to deter thieves even if they have gained entry.
3. Through tire pressure warning system
This is an uncommon practice. Thieves interact with sensors in the tires. This allows them to monitor tire pressure and adjust for incorrect pressure readings, forcing the owner to stop and check. That is the condition for them to "do their job".
How to avoid:When checking tire pressure, car owners should lock all doors and go to a garage to do it.
4. Exploiting the remote control system
Many cars today already have Telematics systems built in without their owners noticing, while many vehicle tracking apps have integrated with those systems.
While this may be useful for owners of Internet-connected cars, it also means that if the systems' servers are compromised or hacked, criminals could locate, unlock, and start cars in their vicinity.
How to avoid:Contact the manufacturer for assistance.
5. Use the internal control network to disable security features
Hackers can access a car's internal network through vulnerabilities in the car's Wi-Fi or phone connection and send a "denial of service" signal that can disable airbags, ABS anti-lock braking systems, or even door locks.
How to avoid:Change your password regularly to avoid hacker access.
6. Hack the built-in diagnostic system
On cars, there's a feature called an "integrated diagnostic port" that allows mechanics to access a vehicle's internal data to perform tasks like checking for light faults and programming new keys for the owner.
However, kits that allow you to use this access port to reprogram new keys can be purchased for under €50. Car thieves can use these kits to create new keys for a vehicle.
How to avoid:Use a steering wheel lock to protect your car, or you can go to a reputable garage for advice.
7. Scam by sending email via phone
If car owners use Wi-Fi in their cars, hackers can gain access through phishing.
They will send emails with links to malicious websites and apps. If the car owner opens them, they will take information and even control every app on the phone to interact with and control the car.
How to avoid:Be cautious when opening emails from unknown senders and do not open links in emails if the source is unknown.
