Car Theft on the Rise
Car thefts have surged, with thieves needing only a few minutes to steal vehicles, even from doorsteps. In Toronto alone, 8,000 vehicles were stolen, averaging more than 20 thefts per day. Most of these thefts are linked to organized crime syndicates, which ship and sell the vehicles overseas. Both old and new cars, including non-luxury vehicles, are potential targets.
Methods of Theft
Reprogramming Theft
Thieves often use a method called reprogramming theft. They gain entry to the vehicle by punching the lock and then plug a device into the onboard diagnostic port (OBD). This allows them to reprogram a key fob and start the vehicle.
Relay Attack
In another method known as a relay attack, thieves use an antenna or extender to communicate with the key fob inside the owner’s house. This device transmits the key fob’s signal, allowing the thief to start the car as if the owner had pressed the key fob.
Preventative Measures
Faraday Pouch
To prevent relay attacks, key fobs can be stored in a Faraday pouch, which blocks the radio frequency signal. Alternatively, a metal box can be used to achieve the same effect.
Physical Barriers
Using a data port lock, which blocks access to the OBD port, can also help prevent theft. Other simple measures include parking the vehicle in a garage, using a steering wheel lock, and blocking the vehicle in with another car.
Real-Life Examples
Failed Theft Despite Precautions
One viewer, Don Carter, had his Lexus stolen despite taking precautions such as using a Faraday bag and a data port lock. This highlights the advanced technology thieves now use, which can enable them to steal a car in as little as 15 to 30 seconds.
Targeted Theft
Another viewer, John Dewig, had his Jaguar stolen because it was specifically ordered by thieves. Despite parking precautions, the thieves used high-tech methods to steal his vehicle.
Expert Advice
Brian Gast, a vice president at the Equity Association and former police officer, advises a layered approach to car theft prevention. This includes both high-tech solutions like Faraday pouches and low-tech measures such as parking in a garage and using steering wheel locks. These steps can help make a car less attractive to thieves compared to neighboring vehicles.
Conclusion
In the face of rising car thefts, combining high-tech and low-tech preventive measures is essential. While it may be impossible to completely theft-proof a car, these strategies can significantly reduce the risk.
