Page 13 - IFV Issue 1 2023

Security

to scramble through a bag or check
multiple pockets to locate one’s keys is
an advantage, particularly here in SA,
it’s an open invitation for criminals to
refine their craft and find ways to steal
these vehicles that are kitted out with
all the latest software and technology.
And, alas, they have achieved just that
in a relatively short space of time.

HOW DO THEY DO IT?
The keyless access tactic usually
involves two villains, but if they first
decide to follow a new car to the shops,
there may be more, who are in cell
phone contact with each other. Once the vehicle owner goes outside to find Or, you could consider deactivating
the vehicle is parked, using a relay the vehicle is missing. the keyless function entirely.
amplifier, the person near the vehicle And, then, although not preventative,
captures the signal transmitted by the CAN THIS METHOD OF THEFT BE installing a tracker system in the vehicle
vehicle’s key fob carried by the driver, PREVENTED will at least help with the recovery of the
as he or she walks away from it – the There are a number of ways to prevent vehicle, if it’s not already in a container
manufacturers have programmed the this type of hacking – possibly the best on its way overseas by the time you
new model vehicles to lock when the way is to buy a Faraday pouch that you discover that your vehicle is missing.
person is a certain distance away. This put your key fob in when you carry it
signal is then transmitted to a relay around or store it while you’re not using A BIZARRE ALTERNATIVE
transmitter, which is then used to open it. The Faraday pouch has a shield that Apparently, some people have been
the car. The key fob has to be inside the blocks electromagnetic fields, and known to store their key fob in their
vehicle before it will start – but that’s this would prevent the criminals from microwave – but this practice is . . . not
no hindrance to the criminals because accessing the fob’s signal. recommended!!
the transmitter is small enough to be A little less convenient but equally By the way, Faraday pouches are easy
taken with the one who enters the car, good, is to use a steering wheel lock or to buy online, through Takealot.com
and all he has to do is press the keyless gear stick lock. or amazon.com – and a host of other
start button and drive away. You could install an additional online stores. Give yourself the gift of
immobiliser. super-security this holiday season –
ARE THERE OTHER RISKS? And, if you’re at a party with friends, make sure your car is safe and remains
So, here’s the thing – the criminals you could ask someone with a car that where you left it – buy your key fob
don’t only go for vehicles in public is started with a key to park behind you. protection today.
parking areas. They have been known
to walk around a house searching
for the signal that’s constantly The Faraday pouch has a shield that blocks
transmitted by the key fob. If the
key fob is hanging on a hook or in a electromagnetic fields, and this would prevent
handbag close to a widow, the signal
can easily be picked up. Next morning, the criminals from accessing the fob’s signal

The Villager • Issue 1 2023 • 11