What Is Car Keys Hacking?

It is heartbreaking to lose a car key. If the car owner isn’t proactive, the criminal could take it a notch further by attempting to gain access to the vehicle.

However, for many modern vehicles, car thieves can easily hack security using sophisticated equipment. In this article, we will discuss car key hacking and how to prevent it.

What Is Car Key Hacking?

Car key hacking occurs when thieves use sophisticated equipment to manipulate the car security system. They have to stay nearby for the process to be successful. It doesn't matter if the key is tucked inside the handbag or pocket; once it is not ‘technically’ protected, it could be hacked.

The first step to hacking any vehicle is scanning for signals. Read on to get further explanation.

How Does Car Key Hacking Work?

Car key hackers are also known as relay thieves. These criminals operate by using electronic car key relay boxes. They often put one near a victim's home to receive the signals from the key fob through the walls and windows of the residence.

Another function of this box is to boost the signal to a second device close to the vehicle, and it will trick it into registering the key as nearby and unlocking the doors. Car thieves often work in pairs to make their work easier. While a thief scans for the signal, the other can open or start the car.

If they are successful, it would take some time before the car owner discovers the crime, and there would be little to no evidence left behind. To avoid ugly scenarios like this, working with a trusted local locksmith is the preferred alternative. At Diego's Locksmith, we will recommend preventative measures to safeguard your prized possession.

Signal Boosting?

Boosting signals does not need key fob programming, rather it is the term given to the process of scanning and manipulating signals. Here, car hackers use a high-tech device to trick the car and the key fob into believing they are near each other. This device succeeds in playing "mind games" between the key and the car lock system. The surprising thing is that the criminals emit the fob's unlock signal without touching the vehicle or fob.

How to Prevent Hackers from Stalking Your Key Fob Signal

For every car owner, the objective should be to keep your key fob safe by preventing thieves from manipulating the signal. Now, this is not so simple to achieve.

Nevertheless, the basic prevention tactic involves placing the keys inside a signal blocker or wallet when not in use. The signal blockers will protect the keys by preventing the signal from escaping from the device. Thus, thieves cannot scan for the signals and no one could have access to our car without your knowledge.

Another effective tactic for protecting your key fob is putting the keys inside a microwave. The microwave is a good hiding spot for the keys as it blocks the signal and prevents it from being tapped by a car thief.

Conclusion

Key fobs are a very secure means of car access and security. But they also have their downsides. Using signal blockers and continuous reprogramming are ways to key your car security from being manipulated. If you need further explanation and guidance about car security, do not hesitate to contact experts at Diego's Locksmith. We are experts in car key replacement and programming services.

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