What is Relay Theft?
Protecting Your Car from Relay Theft: What You Need to Know
In today’s world of smart technology and constant connectivity, convenience often comes with hidden risks. One such risk is the rise of relay theft, a sophisticated method thieves use to steal cars without needing the keys.
Relay theft, or keyless car theft, has become a widespread concern as more vehicles are equipped with keyless entry and start systems. In this post, we’ll break down what relay theft is, how it works, and most importantly, what you can do to protect your vehicle.
What is Relay Theft?
Relay theft exploits the very technology that makes our lives easier—keyless entry systems. While this system lets you unlock and start your car simply by carrying the fob in your pocket, it also opens up new opportunities for car thieves.
Gone are the days of manually unlocking the door and inserting a key into the ignition. Now, key fobs emit signals that automatically unlock the doors and allow the engine to start. However, these signals can be intercepted and relayed, tricking the car into thinking the key fob is nearby. This is the essence of relay theft.
How Relay Theft Works
Relay theft typically involves two thieves working together. Here’s how it plays out:
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Signal Interception: One thief stands near the vehicle, while the other positions themselves close to where the key fob is stored (often near the front door of the home). The second thief uses a device called a relay box to capture the signal from the key fob.
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Signal Amplification: The captured signal is transmitted to the relay box held by the first thief near the car. This amplifies the signal, making the car think the key fob is within range.
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Unlocking and Starting the Car: With the signal successfully relayed, the car unlocks, and the thieves can drive away as if they had the key.
The whole process can take less than a minute, and because there’s no need to break into the car, it leaves little evidence behind.
Why Is Relay Theft So Effective?
Relay theft is highly effective because it takes advantage of a vehicle’s own design. Keyless entry systems continuously emit signals to detect the presence of the fob, usually within a range of 20-30 feet. Thieves use technology to extend this range, allowing them to access the vehicle even when the key fob is inside your home.
Traditional security systems like alarms and immobilisers are often bypassed during relay theft because the car believes the key fob is present. This makes it a quick, silent, and efficient method for thieves.
The Rising Threat of Relay Theft
As keyless entry systems become more common, relay theft has surged. Many high-end vehicles are targeted, but even mid-range and budget cars are at risk, as keyless technology becomes standard in newer models.
Thieves are drawn to this method because it requires minimal effort and equipment, and the risk of being caught is low.
How to Protect Your Vehicle from Relay Theft
While relay theft is a growing concern, there are several ways you can protect your car:
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Use a Faraday Pouch: A Faraday pouch blocks the signal emitted by your key fob, preventing thieves from intercepting it. Store your key fob in the pouch when not in use to reduce the risk of theft.
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Keep Your Key Fob Away from Entry Points: Thieves often target keys stored near doors and windows. Store your key fob in a more secure location, such as a drawer or safe, far from easy access points.
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Disable Keyless Entry: Some vehicles allow you to disable the keyless entry feature. While this reduces convenience, it also eliminates the risk of relay theft. Check your car’s manual or contact the manufacturer to see if this is an option.
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Use a Steering Wheel Lock: A physical steering wheel lock acts as a visible deterrent. Even if thieves can unlock and start your car, the lock makes it harder to steal, encouraging them to move on to an easier target.
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Park Strategically: If possible, park in a garage or a well-lit, busy area. The more visible and secure your parking spot, the less attractive your car becomes to thieves.
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Regularly Update Your Car’s Software: Car manufacturers often release software updates to improve security features. Keeping your car’s software up to date can help protect against vulnerabilities that thieves exploit.
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Install an Additional Tracking Device or Immobiliser: A tracking device like the Meta Trak S5 DeadLock can help authorities locate your car if it’s stolen. Immobilisers such as the Meta BLE42 Bluetooth Immobiliser add an extra layer of security, specifically guarding against relay theft.
The Future of Vehicle Security
As car technology advances, so do the methods used by criminals. Relay theft is a prime example of how convenience can come at the cost of security. However, the automotive industry is working to stay one step ahead. Some manufacturers are developing key fobs that enter “sleep mode” when stationary, disabling the signal and making relay theft impossible.
In the meantime, car owners must take proactive measures to protect their vehicles. Combining multiple security strategies—such as using a Faraday pouch, installing a tracker, and keeping your key fob out of range—can significantly reduce your risk.
Final Thoughts
In an age where digital threats are as real as physical ones, protecting your vehicle from relay theft requires vigilance. By understanding how relay theft works and taking steps to secure your car, you can stay ahead of tech-savvy thieves and keep your vehicle safe.
If you’re looking for a system to guard against relay theft, our team is here to help. Contact us on 07519025078 to find the right tracker for you. We offer nationwide installation at a time and place that suits you, so you can have peace of mind knowing your vehicle is secure.