Keyless car theft — known as a 'relay attack' — has become one of the most common ways thieves steal modern vehicles. It's quick, it's silent, and it doesn't involve breaking a window or forcing a lock. But there are simple, effective steps you can take to protect your car.
How a Relay Attack Works
Your keyless entry key fob constantly emits a short-range radio signal that your car detects when you're nearby. Thieves use a relay device — essentially a signal amplifier — to boost your key's signal from outside your house. One thief stands near your front door or window with a relay box that picks up the key's signal from inside your hallway, on a side table, or wherever you keep it. That signal is relayed to a second thief standing next to your car with another device. The car thinks the key is right next to it, unlocks, and starts. The whole process takes under 60 seconds.
Simple Protection Measures
- •Use a Faraday pouch or box — a cheap (£10–£20) signal-blocking pouch that stops your key fob's signal from being read. Test it: put the key in the pouch and try to unlock your car. If it doesn't work, the thieves' relay can't read it either.
- •Keep keys away from doors and windows — don't leave your keys on a hallway table, windowsill, or hook near the front door. Put them in a drawer or cupboard well inside the house, ideally upstairs.
- •Check if your key fob can be switched off — some newer key fobs have a 'sleep' mode that stops transmitting. Check your owner's manual.
- •Use a steering wheel lock — old-school visible deterrents still work. A thief with relay equipment may move on to an easier target if they see a physical lock.
- •Consider a driveway bollard or lockable post — physical barriers are still one of the most effective deterrents.
What About Software Updates?
Some manufacturers have introduced updated key fobs with motion sensors that stop transmitting when the key is stationary (e.g. on a table overnight). If your car is under warranty or has an active service plan, ask your dealer about any available security software updates for the keyless entry system.
What If Your Keys Are Stolen?
If your keys are physically stolen (e.g. in a burglary), the situation is different from a relay attack. You need to act quickly. Call us immediately on 07706 303038 — we can come to your location, delete the stolen key from the vehicle's memory so it can no longer start the car, and programme a new key for you. We can also advise on additional security measures.
Stay Protected
The most practical, low-cost step is a Faraday pouch and keeping keys away from entry points. These two simple habits eliminate the relay attack risk entirely. For advice on vehicle security in the Bridlington and East Yorkshire area, call us on 07706 303038.