Cars at risk: thieves are cloning keys remotely and stealing vehicles in seconds! Discover how the "relay attack" works and protect your car!

Understand how criminals use the “relay attack” to clone keys remotely and discover simple measures to protect your car against this modern threat.

Technological advances in modern cars have brought greater comfort and safety to drivers, but they have also opened up new opportunities for new types of crimes. Among the techniques most commonly used by criminals today is the “relay attack”. This method allows cars to be stolen in a matter of seconds, without the criminals even having to touch the vehicle key. Do you want to understand how this technique works and, more importantly, how to protect yourself against key cloning? Stay tuned!

What is a “relay attack”?

A “relay attack” is a sophisticated form of car theft that takes advantage of keyless entry technology. These keys emit radio signals that communicate with the car, allowing it to be unlocked and started without having to insert them into the ignition. This convenience, however, is also the system’s weak point. The crime usually involves two thieves and inexpensive devices that are easily found on the internet. Here’s how it works:

The first criminal uses a device to capture the key's signal, even if it is in the pocket or inside the house;
This signal is retransmitted to a second device, in the possession of the accomplice, which is near the car;
With the captured signal, the car “thinks” the key is nearby and allows the criminal to unlock and start it.

All of this happens in a matter of seconds, making car theft incredibly quick and discreet.

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How to protect your car against key cloning?

If you have a modern car with a keyless entry, there’s no need to panic. There are effective ways to prevent your key from being cloned. Here are some essential tips:

Signal Blocker Case

Experts recommend using special cases that block the radio signal emitted by the key. These cases, known as “Faraday bags,” create a barrier that prevents criminals from picking up the key’s signal.

A simple and cheap alternative

If you don’t want to spend money on a blocking case, aluminum foil is a makeshift solution. Simply wrap the key in a few layers of foil to block the signal. While it’s not as effective as dedicated cases, it can be a temporary measure.

Tracking systems

Having a tracker installed in your vehicle is always a good idea, but remember: more experienced criminals use devices that block the tracking signal. Therefore, the tracker is an extra layer of security, but it is not foolproof.

Variable code generators

Some modern key models already have systems that generate new codes each time they are used. This feature makes it harder to clone a key, but it does not completely eliminate the risk. Always check if your car has this technology.

Day to day care

In addition to devices and security systems, some daily attitudes can help protect your vehicle:

Keep the key away from the front door or windows. This makes it difficult for criminals to get close enough to pick up the signal;
Disable the keyless entry system when not in use. Many cars allow you to turn this feature off in the settings menu;
Park in safe, busy areas. Thieves prefer to act in isolated places.

What to do if your car is stolen?

If, despite all precautions, the worst happens, take the following measures immediately:

Report it to the police. File a police report as soon as you notice the theft;
Notify the insurance company. Report the incident to activate the insurance and speed up the compensation process;
Monitor trackers. If your car has a tracker installed, activate the system to try to locate the vehicle.

Modern car technology has ushered in a new era of convenience, but it also presents security challenges. Understanding how relay attacks work and taking preventative measures are essential steps to protecting your car from key cloning.

So, don’t underestimate the creativity of criminals. Always be vigilant, invest in security and share these tips with friends and family. The more people are informed, the harder it will be for thieves to act. After all, prevention is always better than cure!

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Cars at risk: thieves are cloning keys remotely and stealing vehicles in seconds! Discover how the “relay attack” works and protect your car!

Understand how criminals use the “relay attack” to clone keys remotely and discover simple measures to protect your car against this modern threat.

What is a “relay attack”?

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