How Can I Protect My Keyless Car Keys
Have you ever experienced that moment of panic when you can’t remember if you locked your car? We’ve all been there. Thankfully, keyless locks have pretty much solved that problem. But with all that convenience comes a new set of risks. Sure, we can lock and unlock our cars with the push of a button, but that same tech opens the door (literally) for tech-savvy thieves. Your car might be locked, but someone with a device no bigger than a phone could be trying to hack into it.
However, don’t worry – you don’t need to ditch your key fob and go back to old-school keys. With a few easy steps and some smart protection tips, you can keep your car safe. And it’s even simpler than you’d think.
Keep reading to learn how.
Are Keyless Car Locks Really Secure?
Keyless car keys are generally a safer bet than old-school mechanical ones. They let you lock, unlock, and start your car with just a button. Some systems even sync up with your phone, adding an extra layer of convenience and security. You can track your car, lock it remotely, and maybe even give your car a little wink through the app. Pretty cool, right?
However, here’s the catch. Like any technology, keyless car keys aren’t ideal. Some thieves are tech-savvy enough to hack the signal your key fob emits. It’s called a "relay attack."
So, are keyless car locks really secure? Yes, but like any security system, these mechanisms have their own weak spots. The good news? You can protect keyless car keys with some smart, simple steps, and we’re about to tell you how in this informative article.
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Keyless Cars Thieves – How They Work
Today, thieves don’t have to break windows or trigger alarms to steal your car. They’re robbing you without even touching your car keys. The worst part? Their hacking equipment is surprisingly cheap and easy to find. Devices that mimic your key fob’s signal can cost as little as $100 online. So, how does a “relay attack” actually work? Thieves use a device to capture the signal from your key fob, then boost it to unlock and start your car – even if your keys are tucked away safely inside your home. All they need is to be close enough to the fob’s location, and voila, your car is now their getaway vehicle.
To make this more descriptive, let’s say you’re sitting at home with your keyless car keys on the table by the front door. Outside, two thieves are lurking – one near your car and the other near your house. The one by your house uses a device to capture the signal from your key fob, while the other, standing by your car, uses a transmitter to extend that signal and trick your car into thinking the key is nearby. That’s it. They’re in, and you’re out of luck.
Don’t worry, though! We have some keyless car protection tips to ensure this situation never becomes your reality.
Best Practices to Protect Your Keyless Car from Theft
Since you now know how car thieves operate, let’s talk about how you can protect your vehicle. Here are some security tips to protect your keyless car keys from hacking and theft.
1. Use a Faraday Pouch
A Faraday pouch is a simple, cheap pouch lined with material that blocks your key fob’s signal from escaping. It’s like a little tech fortress for your keyless car keys.
2. Turn Off Your Key Fob’s Signal
Many newer key fobs have the option to turn off the signal when not in use. Check your car’s manual or contact your dealer to see if this is an option for your model. It’s an easy and effective keyless car theft prevention technique that takes thieves out of the game.
3. Don’t Keep Your Keys by the Front Door
Yes, keeping your keys on the table by the door when you get home is convenient. But guess what? That’s exactly where thieves expect them to be. Keeping your keys in a safe spot, away from doors or windows, makes it harder for thieves to catch the signal.
4. Use Physical Deterrents
While keyless car tech is all about convenience, don’t forget about old-school physical security. A steering wheel lock or an immobilizer will literally stop a thief in their tracks. Even if they manage to unlock your car, they won’t be able to drive it anywhere.
5. Update Your Car’s Software
Car manufacturers are always updating their software to stay ahead of thieves. Make sure your car’s software is always up to date to avoid vulnerabilities. It’s a simple but often overlooked way to ensure your car's security.
Summing up
In today’s world, keyless car keys offer incredible convenience, but they also come with their own set of security challenges. Fortunately, with the right precautions, you can stay one step ahead of the thieves and keep your car safe. Whether it’s a Faraday pouch, turning off your fob’s signal, or updating your car’s software regularly, these small steps make a big difference. After all, keyless car security doesn’t have to be complicated – just smart.
Still, if you ever need help or want to upgrade your car’s security, Sure Lock & Key is here for you. We’re just a call away to help you stay on top of your car's protection.