Millions of British drivers are being put on high alert over a simple mistake that could see their cars stolen from right outside their homes. Security experts are issuing an urgent warning about the rising threat of 'relay attacks', a sophisticated method used by thieves to exploit a common oversight: where we leave our car keys.
The modern, keyless entry systems that offer ultimate convenience are, ironically, becoming a gateway for criminals. Thieves use inexpensive electronic devices that can amplify the signal from your key fob, even through walls and windows, tricking your car into thinking the key is present.
How the 'Relay Attack' Works
This isn't a smash-and-grab operation; it's a silent, digital crime. The process is alarmingly simple:
- Signal Detection: Two thieves work together. One stands by your front door or window with a relay amplifier.
- Signal Relay: The device picks up the faint signal from your key fob, which is often left on a hallway table or hung by the door.
- Signal Cloning: The amplified signal is transmitted to a second accomplice holding another device near your vehicle.
- Unlocked: The car receives the cloned signal, recognises it as the correct key, and unlocks instantly, allowing the thief to start the engine and drive away—often in under 60 seconds.
Protect Your Key, Protect Your Car
The good news is that preventing this type of crime is surprisingly straightforward. It's not about installing expensive new gadgets, but about changing your habits.
- Create a Faraday Cage: Store your keys in a signal-blocking pouch, a metal tin, or even a microwave (just don't turn it on!). These act as a barrier, containing the key's signal.
- Distance is Key: Avoid leaving keys near the front door or entrance of your home. The further they are from the outside, the harder they are to detect.
- Old-Fashioned Security: For added protection, consider a physical steering wheel lock or a driveway parking post. These visible deterrents often persuade thieves to look for an easier target.
- Check and Double-Check: Always ensure your vehicle is locked by physically checking the door handle after using the remote, as some criminals use jammers to intercept the lock signal.
With car crime evolving, a moment of vigilance can save you the immense hassle and financial loss of having your vehicle stolen. It’s a simple wash-and-store routine for your keys that could make all the difference.
