A few years ago, keyless entry systems were a symbol of luxury and technical sophistication. All you had to do was keep the key in your pocket and the car would unlock or start by itself. Today, however, the reality is much less idyllic. Thieves have found a way to easily overcome these technologies. And that’s why the number of thefts of cars with keyless entry systems has risen steadily in recent years. Are you sure your vehicle is really safe?
How does a keyless system work?
Keyless systems work on the principle of communication between the electronic key and the car’s control unit. When you approach the car, the key sends a signal to which the car responds – it unlocks and allows you to start the car. The whole process is designed for the convenience of the driver, but the technology also hides a weakness that thieves can exploit.
What is a relay attack and why is it so dangerous?
Thieves use so-called relay devices that can extend the signal from your key even though you are physically dozens of metres away from the car – for example, at home or in a café. All it takes is two perpetrators to do it. One picks up the signal from the key, the other approaches the car with the extended signal, which is then unlocked and started. The whole process takes no more than a few seconds.
Several statistics and the experience of police in various countries suggest that most newer vehicles with keyless entry systems fail to detect this type of attack. The vehicle is thus easily driven away by the thieves, often without any trace of the break-in.
According to data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales (CSEW), published by Auto Express, almost 60% of vehicle thefts between 2023 and 2024 were related to breaking the keyless system, compared to only around 14% in 2019. In cities with a higher proportion of modern cars, such as London, the proportion is even around 60%. This just confirms that thieves are increasingly targeting keyless technologies that they see as vulnerable.
Theft is on the rise
Not only in Slovakia, but also across Europe, we are seeing an increase in the theft of cars equipped with keyless entry. Modern vehicles from brands such as Volkswagen, Toyota, Ford, Kia and Hyundai are particularly popular with thieves. Experts warn that the risk of theft is rising, especially where drivers still rely only on serial security.
How can you defend yourself?
The basic rule of thumb is not to leave the key near the front door or windows, where the signal could easily be picked up. It is advisable to keep keys in a case with a protective layer (called a Faraday cage) that blocks the signal. However, this measure is not 100% effective and securing the vehicle with additional systems is now practically a necessity.
Pandora Alarm: Protection against modern attacks
If you own a vehicle with keyless entry, it’s time to think about prevention. Pandora Alarm offers a broad portfolio of solutions that can withstand even sophisticated relay attacks and other modern methods of theft.
Pandora systems are able to:
- Block the engine from starting, even if the thief uses an extended signal.
- If the vehicle is unlocked without the Pandora authorization handle present, sound a loud alarm and block the engine.
- Alert you immediately via the mobile app if someone attempts to gain unauthorized access to your vehicle.
- Provide real-time GPS tracking of your vehicle.
- Utilize 4G communication with Bluetooth backup in case of signal interference.
Pandora is simply the solution for anyone who doesn’t want to compromise between security and convenience.
Don’t wait until it’s too late
Keyless systems are a major technological step forward, but also the “Achilles heel” of modern cars. If you own such a vehicle, don’t wait until you’re the next victim of statistics. Investing in additional security, such as Pandora SMART PRO, can be the difference between losing your car and peace of mind.
Your car deserves more than just basic protection.
Sources: Miles, AutoExpress
