Car theft has evolved significantly over the years. Today, criminals no longer need to break windows or hotwire engines. With keyless entry systems, a new form of car theft has emerged—relay theft, and it’s becoming increasingly common.
But what exactly is relay theft, and how can you protect your vehicle from falling victim to this type of crime? In this article, we’ll explore the mechanics behind relay theft and provide practical tips to safeguard your car.
What is Relay Theft?
Relay theft targets vehicles with keyless entry systems. These systems allow drivers to unlock their cars without physically inserting a key. Instead, they use a key fob that transmits a short-range radio signal. While this technology is incredibly convenient, it’s also vulnerable to hackers.
Criminals use a method called relay attack, where two thieves work together using a relay box—one stands near the car, and the other near the house (or wherever the car key is stored). The device amplifies the signal from the key fob and relays it to the car, tricking it into thinking the fob is nearby. As a result, the thieves can unlock the vehicle and drive away—all within seconds and without the need for a traditional break-in.
The Alarming Rise of Relay Theft
As keyless entry technology becomes more widespread, so does the risk of relay theft. In fact, recent studies show that this method is responsible for a growing percentage of vehicle thefts globally. According to UK data, relay theft accounts for up to 90% of all car thefts involving keyless entry cars in certain regions.
What makes relay theft particularly concerning is how effortless it is. Thieves don’t need sophisticated hacking skills—just the right equipment, often cheaply available online.
How to Protect Your Car from Relay Theft
While keyless entry systems offer undeniable convenience, they also require added vigilance. Fortunately, there are several ways to protect your vehicle from relay theft:
- Keep Your Keys Safe and Away from Doors/Windows Criminals use signal amplifiers to intercept key fob signals from outside your home. To minimize this risk, store your keys as far away from doors and windows as possible. This reduces the chance of thieves catching the signal.
- Use a Signal Blocking Solution One of the most effective ways to prevent relay theft is by using a signal-blocking device, often referred to as a Faraday box or pouch. These devices block the radio signals emitted by your key fob, making it impossible for thieves to amplify and relay them.
Some signal-blocking solutions not only provide security but are also designed with durability and style in mind, ensuring you can protect your car keys without compromising on aesthetics. - Disable Keyless Entry (if possible) Some car models allow owners to disable the keyless entry feature entirely. If you don’t frequently rely on this function, it might be a good idea to deactivate it for added security.
- Install a Steering Wheel Lock A visible steering wheel lock is an old-school but effective deterrent. While it won’t stop relay theft, it will make your car much harder to drive away once it’s been unlocked, potentially discouraging thieves.
- Use a Car Tracking System In the unfortunate event that your car is stolen, a GPS tracking device can help authorities recover it. These systems are becoming more affordable and can provide extra peace of mind.
Why a Signal Blocking Box is Your Best Defense
Of all the solutions mentioned, a signal-blocking box is one of the most reliable and convenient ways to protect your vehicle from relay theft. These boxes are lined with materials that block electromagnetic signals, ensuring that your key fob cannot communicate with your car while it’s stored inside.
Unlike flimsy alternatives, high-quality signal-blocking boxes are built to last, with durable construction and a sleek design that adds a touch of luxury to your home. They’re also spacious enough to store multiple key fobs, and some even come with additional features like non-slip rubber feet or soft flannel linings to protect your keys.
For those who are frequently on the go, a signal-blocking pouch is an ideal companion, allowing you to secure your spare keys or protect them while traveling. It’s an easy, portable solution that provides peace of mind no matter where you are.
Secure Your Car and Your Peace of Mind
With relay theft on the rise, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect your vehicle. By understanding how this form of theft works and implementing the right precautions, you can stay one step ahead of criminals. If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish solution, consider exploring a signal-blocking box that not only keeps your car keys safe but also adds a luxurious touch to your home. It’s a small investment for a significant boost in security.
Affiliate Information
Please be aware that Secure Your Car is an affiliate for some of the products listed on this page. When you click on our affiliate links and make a purchase, you are actively supporting our mission.
Secure Your Car is dedicated to helping car owners and communities by providing education, resources, and collaborative strategies for vehicle protection. Our mission is to promote increased safety, reduce car theft, and foster peace of mind for individuals and neighborhoods alike.
Every purchase made through these links helps us further our efforts to build vigilant and responsible communities that prioritize vehicle safety and security. By shopping through us, you’re not only investing in quality products but also contributing to initiatives that create safer and more connected neighborhoods.
We believe that every proactive step toward vehicle protection strengthens our collective efforts to reduce crime and enhance community well-being.
Thank you for your support and for joining us in creating a safer world for all.
With appreciation,
Secure Your Car