Four new cars have been given “Poor” security ratings because of their vulnerability to “keyless theft”
Four brand new cars have been identified as potential targets for tech-savvy car thieves , after it emerged that their keyless entry systems leave them vulnerable to hacking.
The DS3 Crossback, Mazda 3, Toyota RAV-4 and Volvo S60 have all been rated “Poor” in Thatcham Research’s latest car security ratings for 2019.
Keyless entry systems are frequently offered by carmakers as an additional cost option, and allow drivers to open and start their cars without removing the keyless fob from their pocket.
However, this leaves them open to the infamous Relay Attack , whereby thieves effectively “hack into” the car by extending the signal from the keyless fob.
“The device then relays the key’s signal to an accomplice, who is holding another device against the car door.
“The car is effectively fooled into believing that the owner is within a defined range (usually two metres) and is approaching the car with their key.
“The door opens, and the signal is relayed to the accomplice a second time, allowing the car to start.”
While this method of stealing a car may sound a bit far-fetched, Thatcham claims that it is a real risk.
The increase is in part being driven by keyless car crime , with hi-tech criminals being able to bypass keyless technology in as little as 20 seconds, according to ABI.
“With car crime hitting new highs this year, a vehicle’s resistance to innovative thieves should be front of mind for any consumer looking to buy a keyless car,” said Laurenz Gerger, Motor Policy Adviser at the Association of British Insurers.
“We hope that today’s results will encourage manufacturers and consumers alike to take action to thwart the growing issue of keyless car crime.
“Whilst progress has been positive, Thatcham Research’s ratings show that, for many vehicles, there’s still a long way to go to reduce the £1.2 million that is currently paid out every day for all car thefts.”
However, not all cars with keyless entry systems are susceptible to the Relay Attack.
The BMW 7 Series, BMW X7 and Porsche 911 all have keyless entry systems, and all retained their Superior ratings through the introduction of motion sensor enabled fobs.
If the sensor detects the fob hasn’t moved for a short period, it idles and goes into sleep mode.
Source: Brietbert
