How to prevent keyless car theft
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The UK has seen a sharp rise in keyless car theft, with vehicle thefts increasing by 30% since 2020, and London being the most affected area.
Cars with keyless entry systems are the primary targets, as these systems can create vulnerabilities that thieves exploit, despite advancements in security features like immobilisers and alarms.
For Uber drivers who are on the road daily and at higher risk, it’s crucial to understand how to prevent keyless car theft and take the necessary precautions.
What is a keyless car?
Many modern cars are equipped with the latest tech systems, allowing you to get into the car without using the key directly. These systems work using short-range radio waves, with the key in your pocket or bag transmitting a signal the receiver in your car picks up. The car will recognise this signal, and you can just open your car door or press a small button to enter the car.
However, if the car doesn’t recognise the signal, the car door won’t open.
How does keyless car theft work?
Unfortunately, it’s pretty simple to open an unsecured keyless entry car. All thieves need are two small boxes of equipment, and they can open the car in less than a minute. Their equipment can detect if a car has keyless entry.
They usually identify a desirable car parked in front of a house and try to capture the signal transmitted by your key if you have it inside. When the receiver used picks up and replicates the amplified signal from the key, the vehicle will open right away.
How can I prevent keyless car theft?
Luckily, you can take a few extra steps to protect your car against these threats.
1. Buy a Faraday pouch
A Faraday pouch, with its metallic lining, blocks the key’s signal from being intercepted by thieves. Available for as little as £5, these pouches are a simple and effective solution. However, it’s wise to combine this with other security measures for extra peace of mind.
2. Keep your keys away from your car
Keeping your keys away from your car, doors, and windows makes it harder for thieves to detect and amplify the signal. If you don’t have a garage, try parking your car further from your home to reduce the chances of thieves pinpointing its location.
3. Physically block your car
Using physical barriers like steering locks, wheel clamps, or a pedal box can prevent thieves from easily driving your car away, even if they manage to get inside.
4. Fit a tracking device
In case your car is stolen, having a tracking device increases the likelihood of it being recovered by the police.
Are car manufacturers taking measures in this situation?
Yes, many manufacturers are now introducing motion sensors that deactivate key signals when the key is idle.
Some vehicles also allow you to turn off the keyless entry system entirely - check your vehicle handbook or consult your dealer for details on how to disable it.
About Splend
At Splend, we believe in drivers. We know their vehicles need to work harder than most; that they drive more miles than most; that their insurance is hefty; their maintenance costs high and that they can face unreasonable finance rates – which is a heavy load to carry on their own.
That’s why at Splend, we exist to support rideshare drivers with a new model, that takes all those car ownership costs, and provides them for less, with lower purchase prices, better rates, lower servicing and insurance costs – all for one weekly repayment, all in one place.
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