How a Basic Method Allows Thieves to Steal Your Car in Seconds | Carscoops

      Theft rates are increasing in Southern California as thieves intercept key fob signals to steal luxury vehicles.

      Thieves utilize antennas to capture concealed key signals and quickly unlock cars. Others discreetly reprogram ignitions after breaking in with locksmith tools.

      Authorities are recommending simple measures that could prevent thefts before they even occur.

      In the past, car theft required skills with lockpicks and wires, demanding effort, noise, and courage. However, today’s thieves face more sophisticated anti-theft systems, prompting them to replace traditional tools with digital devices. In many instances, they don’t even have to physically touch the car to gain access.

      Following two high-tech thefts in California, police are advising residents to monitor their keys more closely, even when the fobs are kept inside the home.

      Authorities report a recent spike in thefts across the state, with criminals using wireless relay devices and locksmith-style tablets to bypass modern anti-theft features, often focusing on high-end vehicles. A resident from Anaheim Hills informed KTLA that intruders approached his front porch, but their intent was not to break in.

      How Are They Getting In?

      Captured on security footage, a suspect was seen approaching the front door with what appeared to be a rudimentary antenna. This device picked up the signal from a key fob located inside the house, increased its range, and transmitted it to an accomplice near the vehicle parked in the driveway.

      After that, the thieves were able to unlock the door, get in, start the engine, and drive away—all without needing the actual key. “Who would’ve thought someone would come with an antenna and take your car away from you?” remarked the victim.

      Just days later in Lake Forest, a similar occurrence was recorded on home surveillance. Footage shows a masked individual sweeping a driveway with the same type of antenna moments before the engine of the stolen vehicle roars to life.

      Tools of the (Digital) Trade

      Anaheim Police Sgt. Matt Sutter indicates that detectives are currently looking into at least two more incidents from the same weekend. Antennas are not the only concern.

      Another duo of thieves recently shattered a truck’s rear window, climbed inside, and then connected a locksmith tablet to the vehicle’s OBD port, instantly reprogramming the ignition to start the truck. Due to the tinted windows, the glass largely remained intact, which helped make the break-in much quieter on camera.

      How to Protect Your Car

      Police suggest several straightforward precautions. Firstly, do not leave key fobs near doors or windows, where a relay device might catch the signal. Disabling passive keyless entry when it’s not needed can also enhance security. Additionally, using Faraday pouches or even aluminum foil may seem outdated but can effectively block a fob's signal from being transmitted outside.

      Furthermore, if you have a garage, officers emphasize the importance of utilizing it. This last recommendation is crucial, as keeping a key in a Faraday bag would not be effective against thieves equipped with locksmith-style tablets.

      Credit: NBC News