Modern cars typically have a remote keyless entry or “smart keys” system. This allows you to control the door locks, ignition, trunk, or tailgate on your vehicle without needing to touch your key fob. It has definitely come in handy when your hands are full with groceries or you’re carrying a car seat. However, it has also made it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle. Let’s talk about how remote keyless entry technology has made your vehicle more susceptible to theft.
Residential Auto Theft on the Rise
Over the past several years, police have observed an increase in vehicle thefts from residential driveways. Higher-end vehicles, especially SUVs, are the primary target of thieves in Ontario. These vehicles yield substantial returns when sold abroad. Countries in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Central America, and the Middle East are common destinations for stolen vehicles. Canadian Border Services agents are routinely seizing stolen luxury vehicles. Border agents work in conjunction with both police and IBC investigators in port cities such as Montreal, Halifax, and Vancouver.
New technology, such as smart keys, has made vehicle theft easier. A pandemic-driven shortage of semiconductor chips, which are needed for new cars, has contributed to the increase in technology-fueled car theft. As the demand for these chips grows, so does the method of acquiring them. Car thieves typically have a set agenda for their stolen vehicles. Using illegal financial gain as motivation, the sale of whole vehicles or “chopped” individual car components has become a lucrative business worldwide.
How Does Theft Happen with Innovative Technology?
Here are some of the current and up-and-coming methods thieves are utilizing to steal your vehicle from right under your nose:
“Gameboy” Device
Investigators have recently discovered new methods thieves are using to steal cars. Thieves are using a device that looks like an old-school Nintendo Game Boy. What does it do? It accesses potential targets by utilizing software that contains a database of thousands of car models. Investigators believe that they then punch in the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the device to start the car. Finally, all they need to do is hit a button on the device to unlock the vehicle and initiate the push-button ignition. While still relatively new, the intricacies of the process are still largely speculative.
Relay Attacks
Considered an ‘old school’ method, thieves utilize devices to capture the signal of your car key fob and then amplify it to open your car doors. A relay attack can happen on your driveway from a signal sent from the key fob inside your front door! Thieves can also follow you into a shopping mall to pick up the key signal from your pocket. Then, they transmit or ‘relay’ it to an accomplice who’s waiting near your car in the parking lot.
A relay attack requires two people working together. What’s more, some relay devices can pick up a signal from over 100 metres away! To determine your smart key fob’s specific code, thieves cycle through countless combinations on their laptops or wireless relay units until they hit on the right one that unlocks your car door. Then, they can remotely turn on the ignition, allowing your car to be driven off. The equipment used in these attacks is neither expensive nor difficult to find. In fact, CBC News reported on a rash of relay attacks targeting Toyota and Lexus models in the Ottawa area. The result? Thieves were using a $200 signal amplifier.
So, how can you prevent keyless car theft? According to CAA, you can store your keyless fobs in a metal box when not in use to avoid signal interference. Additionally, when you’re out in public, you can use a keyless fob protector pouch to block any signals that thieves may intercept.
Worried about your vehicle? Check out our list of the most stolen cars in Canada.
Smart Keys and Auto Theft: Using Old and New Tech
Experts say there’s an easier and cheaper solution that thieves are using instead of a relay attack: lock picks. These tools are available for under $60 on online marketplaces. Once inside the car, thieves typically plug a key programmer into the car’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. Key programmers are available online for under $1,000. The OBD port is usually located under the steering wheel, and mechanics can plug in a diagnostic tool to the car’s computer from here.
Thieves may use an electronic device typically used by mechanics to reprogram your vehicle’s settings. They can also program your car to accept a smart key that they have brought with them. This type of theft can be done on nearly any vehicle with a push-to-start ignition. Vehicles with physical keys require a separate tool to clone the key, whereas those with smart keys do not.
To learn more about what to do after your vehicle is stolen, check out our article on the topic.
Apple AirTags
A York Regional Police task force found in prior years that an increase in reports of Apple AirTag tracking devices had been hidden on cars. AirTags are small keyring-sized discs that you can attach to your bag or keys to help find them if they go missing. This useful technology, however, is ripe for abuse. You can place them in your car’s trailer hitch, within the gas tank, or sometimes, in the front grill of your vehicle. Thieves will then use them to track you to a location suitable for them to steal your vehicle once you walk away. Thus far, car thefts involving AirTags appear to be rare, but the potential for this to happen is there.
How Common is Auto Theft?
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, auto theft is affecting Canadians nationwide. Particularly, Ontario is taking the biggest hit. In 2022, more than 105,000 vehicles were stolen across Canada. This amounts to one vehicle being stolen every five minutes. Although the number of auto thefts has decreased in recent years, it remains a significant problem nationwide.
Smart Keys and Auto Theft: Conclusion
There is no denying that the advancements in automobiles have made our lives much more convenient when it comes to driving. However, we need to remember that it can also lead to corruption. While remote keyless entry may offer us convenience, we all need to remain vigilant about protecting ourselves and our vehicles. Consider implementing some of the strategies outlined in the article above to help protect your investment.
If you have any further questions about ensuring you have the proper coverage for your car, please call us today. We help our clients find the best auto insurance rates in Ontario, including Ottawa, Mississauga, and Toronto. Reach out to us today!
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