How to protect your vehicle from thieves stealing keyless cars in minutes

Police Warn of High-Tech Car Thefts Targeting Keyless Vehicles

Authorities have reported a surge in car thefts involving tablets and antennas used to bypass keyless or "push-to-start" systems, but there are precautions owners can take to safeguard their vehicles.

Recently, masked individuals broke into two separate vehicles parked in driveways in Anaheim Hills and drove them away, according to the Anaheim Police Department. Police stated that electronic devices were used to steal higher-end vehicles in both incidents.

Mark Sutter, spokesperson for Anaheim Police, explained that these thefts are increasingly targeting modern cars, including models like the Dodge Challenger and Ford F-150 Raptor, which feature supercharged engines for enhanced performance.

It is still unclear if the two Anaheim Hills thefts are connected. Investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been made.

How the Thefts Happened

Reviewing home surveillance footage, police found that the burglars broke a trucks back window and entered the vehicle. The suspects then connected a tablet to the cars computer system, reprogrammed it, pressed the start button, and drove off.

Ways to Protect Your Vehicle

Parking in a garage remains a reliable method to protect vehicles. Additionally, using a steering wheel lock can deter thieves, though it is not entirely foolproof. "It can slow them down, making theft more difficult," said Sutter.

In one case, thieves exploited the key fob signal using an antenna. Modern vehicles often use remote keyless entry systems, where the fob emits a signal to unlock doors or start the engine when nearby. This signal can be intercepted and amplified by thieves, allowing them to steal the car within a minute.

Commonly, key fobs are left near doors on hooks or in bowls, making it easy for thieves to capture the signal. Experts recommend keeping fobs in the center of the home or using a signal-blocking bag or box, which prevents the fob from emitting signals.

For complete protection, owners can turn off the keyless entry feature following instructions in their vehicles manual.

Author: Sophia Brooks