In this age of smart technology and the constant connection we live under, convenience often comes with a hidden cost.
One such example is the rise of relay theft – a sophisticated method car thieves use to steal vehicles without even needing the keys!
Relay theft, also known as keyless car theft, has become increasingly prevalent as more vehicles are equipped with keyless entry and start systems. This blog explores what relay theft is, how it works, and, most importantly, what you can do to prevent becoming a victim!
Understanding Relay Theft
Relay theft is a method of vehicle theft that exploits the technology behind keyless entry systems many of us rely on with our modern cars. These systems are designed to make life easier for car owners, but they come with additional challenges you need to be aware of.
Those of a certain age will remember manually unlocking your car and inserting a key into the ignition. Whereas now you can often simply walk up to your vehicle with the key fob in your pocket, and the doors will automatically unlock because of a signal that the fob emits. Similarly, once inside, you can start the engine with the push of a button.
While this technology is convenient, it also presents an opportunity for tech-savvy thieves.
Relay theft involves intercepting and relaying the signal between the car and its key fob. By amplifying the signal, thieves can trick the car into thinking the key fob is nearby, allowing them to unlock and start the vehicle.
How Relay Theft Works
Relay theft typically involves two individuals (aka thieves!) working together. The process can be broken down into a few key steps:
- Signal Interception: The first thief positions themselves near the car, while the second thief stays close to the house or wherever the key fob is located. Thieves will bet that most car keys will be kept near the front door. Using a device called a relay box, the second thief intercepts the signal emitted by the key fob.
- Signal Amplification: The intercepted signal is then transmitted to the relay box held by the first thief near the car. This device amplifies the signal, making the car believe the key fob is within the proximity needed to activate.
- Unlocking and Starting the Car: With the signal successfully relayed, the car unlocks, and the thieves can enter the vehicle. Since the car’s system is tricked into thinking the key fob is inside, the engine can also be started, and the thieves can drive away with the minimum of fuss.
This entire process can take less than a minute, and because it doesn’t involve breaking into the car or damaging it in any way, there’s little noise or physical evidence left behind. The speed and stealthiness of relay theft make it a preferred method for modern car thieves.
Why Is Relay Theft So Effective?
Relay theft is particularly effective because it takes advantage of a vehicle’s inherent design. Most keyless entry systems continuously emit a signal to detect the presence of the key fob.
This signal usually has a limited range (usually between 20-30 ft), intended to work only when the key is nearby. However, the technology used by thieves can extend this range significantly.
Additionally, since no physical break-in is required, many traditional car security systems, such as alarms and immobilisers, are not triggered during a relay theft. The thieves don’t need to break windows, pick locks, or even hotwire the vehicle, all of which would typically draw attention or set off alarms.
The Rise of Relay Theft
Relay theft has become more common as keyless entry and start systems have become widespread. According to various reports, a significant percentage of car thefts in recent years have been attributed to relay attacks.
Thieves are increasingly turning to this method because it’s quick, silent and relatively easy providing they have the right equipment.
High-end vehicles are often targeted due to their higher resale value and the likelihood of them being equipped with keyless entry systems. However, even mid-range and budget vehicles aren’t immune, as keyless technology becomes standard in more models almost everyone is at risk.
Preventing Relay Theft. How To Protect Your Vehicle.
Given the effectiveness of relay theft, it’s natural to be concerned, especially if your vehicle has a keyless entry system. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this type of theft:
1. Use a Faraday Pouch
A Faraday pouch is a simple and relatively inexpensive solution to prevent relay theft. These pouches are lined with a metal mesh that blocks radio and electromagnetic signals, preventing your key fob from communicating with your vehicle.
When not in use, store your key fob inside a Faraday pouch to block any attempts to intercept its signal.
If you buy a SmarTrack S5+ iMOB from us, this comes with a free Faraday pouch.
2. Keep Your Key Fob Away from Doors and Windows
Thieves often rely on proximity to the key fob to intercept its signal. So, if a Faraday pouch isn’t for you, try to keep your key fob away from doors and windows. This will make it harder for them to capture the signal.
Store your keys in a secure location, such as a drawer or safe, that isn’t easily accessible from outside.
3. Disable Keyless Entry
Because of the rise of this kind of theft some vehicles allow you to disable the keyless entry feature.
Check your car’s manual or contact the manufacturer to see if this is an option for you. While this may reduce the convenience of your vehicle, it also eliminates the risk of relay theft.
4. Use a Steering Wheel Lock
A somewhat old-school but visible deterrent, such as a steering wheel or gearstick lock, can make your car less attractive to thieves. While a relay attack can unlock and start your vehicle, it won’t be able to remove a physical lock from the steering wheel.
Thieves are likely to move on to an easier target rather than spend time trying to bypass this additional layer of security that may increase the risk of being caught.
5. Park Strategically
Where you park your car can also make a difference. If possible, park in a garage or a well-lit, busy area. The more visible your vehicle is, the less appealing it becomes to thieves.
Additionally, parking close to a wall or another car can make it harder for thieves to access your vehicle’s doors.
6. Regularly Update Your Car’s Software
Given the technology inherent in modern cars, some vehicle manufacturers release regular software updates that can enhance the security of keyless entry systems.
Ensure that your car’s software is up-to-date, as these updates may include measures to prevent relay attacks.
7. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
While technology plays a significant role in relay theft, criminals often rely on opportunity. Be mindful of where and how you store your keys, and be aware of any suspicious activity near your home or vehicle. Vigilance can go a long way in preventing theft.
8. Install an Additional Tracking Device or Immobiliser
While tracking devices won’t always prevent your car from being stolen, they can significantly increase the chances of recovering it.
If your vehicle is equipped with a tracking device, authorities can locate it more quickly, sometimes even before the thieves have had a chance to strip or sell it. Trackers like the SmarTrack S5 D-iD offer protection against relay theft in addition to key theft and key cloning.
You could also opt for an immobiliser to help secure your car. The Meta BLE42 Bluetooth Immobiliser in our store has technology within it that specifically guards your vehicle against relay theft.
The Future of Vehicle Security
As car technology continues to advance, so too will the methods used by criminals. It’s a constant game of cat and mouse, but you don’t always have to be the mouse.
The automotive industry is aware of the threat posed by relay theft and is constantly working on solutions to counteract it. For instance, some manufacturers are developing key fobs that enter a sleep mode when not in motion, effectively disabling the signal when the key is stationary.
In the meantime, the responsibility falls on car owners like us to take preventative measures. While no single method can guarantee 100% protection against relay theft, combining several of the strategies outlined above can significantly reduce your risk.
There’s no denying that relay theft is a growing concern in an era where convenience is often prioritised over security.
Understanding how this method of car theft works is the first step in protecting yourself and your vehicle. By taking proactive measures such as using a Faraday pouch, disabling keyless entry, and installing a tracking device – you can stay one step ahead of thieves and ensure your car remains safe.
As technology evolves, so too must our approach to security. Staying informed and vigilant is crucial in today’s world, where even our precious cars are vulnerable to digital attacks.
If you’re looking for a system to help protect you from a relay attack then please give our dedicated customer service team a ring on 0330 043 3993 and we’ll be happy to help find the right tracker for you. Once ordered, we can come to you anywhere in the UK at a time and place that suits you to install your tracker and keep your vehicle secure!
