More and more car companies are change the traditional car key by an electronic ignition system which not only allows you to start the engine, but also open or close the vehicle with relative ease. Although this may mean a priori a technological advantage and with respect to comfort, the truth is that there has been a increase in car thefts that have implemented this system.
How does it work? The electronic key emits a radio frequency signal short range which is captured through receivers in the car. As you approach the vehicle, it perceives the signal from the device and unlock the doors. There are three types of keyless starting system: using a smart remote, a card or a mobile application.
However, just as automobiles have modernized, so have cars. thieves and theft methods. Many of them try expand the radio signal of the key when the driver is nearby of the vehicle, especially when it is parked near the victim’s house. In this way, they get open the car without raising suspicions and access the start button without any type of obstacle.
How to protect yourself?
In front of risk of signal amplification by criminals, many car manufacturers are already offering more and more secure systems to combat this danger. The two most effective are:
- UWB technology: It allows you to measure the transit time of the signals and determine the distance between the key and the car. In this way, if it is perceived that both are too far away, the vehicle will not be able to open or close, even with signal amplification.
- Motion sensors: If the key remains stationary for a few minutes, the technology turns off. It is only activated again when the sensors detect some type of movement. The bad thing about this system is that you have to wait a few minutes until the function is turned off, with the risk of signal duplication during that period of time.
However, in some cars it is enough to do double click the close button on the remote control to deactivate the keyless function. Mercedes, Toyota or Mazda are some of the brands that are implementing this method in their ranks. However, there are some vehicles where this is not possible to do at home, but rather it is need to go to a workshop.
Other home remedies
There have also been developed some home methods that combat the highest risk of theft before these electronic ignition systems. An example of this are the Faraday coversthat block all types of wireless signals and thus protect electromagnetic fields.
Another even more home-made remedy is foilsince if we wrap the key with this material we will get protect radio signals with great efficiency. The same result is also obtained if we leave the remote control in a metal containeras in a pot, or even in the refrigerator or freezer.
In summary, the technology can appear to be useful and facilitate the daily lives of those who enjoy it, but the truth is that if one is guilty of naivety can pose a great danger. It is important to be careful and understand each technological advance, as well as know how to use devices correctly instead of blindly trusting.
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