We’ve all heard about it in video games (Grand Theft Auto, anyone?) and seen it in movies, like “James Bond” or “The Fast and the Furious.” Bad guys and good guys who need a ride immediately, in fact, so urgently, steal the first car they see! Whether it’s to get away, to start a chase, save the girl or get the bad guy, stealing cars on the big screen is pretty common. It’s exciting, and apparently, a really good skill to have! Now in the real world, I don’t know a thing about stealing cars, and I don’t know anyone who does! Doesn’t seem worth it if you ask me, but there are some bold people out there who don’t care about the risk, and who are finding new and creative ways to get better at hacking into them.
There are some bizarre things people will try to get into a car, and it’s scary to know that there are so many possibilities that someone can get into the vehicle without the key.
If your car has a fob, have you heard about wrapping your fob with aluminum foil? It might sound absurd at first, but listen up, it could help protect your vehicle! Nowadays, thieves are able to intercept the key fob’s signal, meaning they have a mystery device that is able to pick up on the code emitted when you lock your car with the fob and replicate it using this special device. They “absorb” the signal and then, when the owner is away from his/her car, the thief is able to use that intercepted signal and easily open the door.
Sound a little sci-fi? It’s not. These tools are becoming more readily available, and cheaper. But there is a way to prevent this from happening to you. Grab a roll of basic household aluminum foil, and simply wrap it around your fob. You can also stash your fob in a metal coffee can. Either way, it’s the metal that causes the signal to be distorted so it can’t be picked up by a third party. Even a Faraday Bag, a forensic-grade device shielding bag, will help prevent potential danger.
Click below for more information about this mystery device and the new way cars are being stolen. It’s a great way to understand how to keep your vehicle safe!
