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PROJECT: CAR THEFT IN SOUTH AFRICA - HOW CRIMINALS CLONE KEYS AND HOW YOU CAN PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE

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Car theft remains a concerning issue in South Africa, with criminals constantly adapting their methods to bypass modern security features. As technology advances, so do the techniques thieves use, who now employ increasingly sophisticated methods to steal vehicles. In particular, the rise of electronic key fobs and tracking systems has given criminals new opportunities to clone car keys and disable security systems. Understanding how these theft techniques work and taking proactive steps to protect your vehicle is crucial.


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KEY CLONING METHODS USED BY CRIMINALS:

Criminals in South Africa have turned to advanced technologies to steal vehicles more efficiently.

  • RELAY ATTACKS:

    • Relay attacks are one of the most prevalent techniques car thieves use in South Africa.

    • Thieves use devices to intercept and amplify the signal from your key fob, allowing them to unlock and start your car without needing the physical key.

    • These attacks are particularly effective when key fobs are left in close proximity to thieves, such as inside a home or in a purse.

    • The amplified signal is read as though coming from your key, enabling thieves to access your vehicle without triggering alarms.

  • KEY CLONING:

    • Another common method is key cloning.

    • Criminals use specialised devices to clone the key code onto a blank fob, creating a duplicate key that can unlock and start your car.

    • Once the signal is intercepted, it is saved to the device, allowing the thief to replicate your key quickly.

    • This method is effective against vehicles with older electronic keys, which are more vulnerable to cloning.

    • However, even newer vehicles can be targeted if the proper precautions are not taken.

  • SIGNAL JAMMING:

    • Signal jamming is another technique criminals use to disable your car's security features.

    • Thieves employ jammers to block the signal from your key fob, preventing it from locking your vehicle or activating its alarm system.

    • This makes it easier for criminals to break into your car without alerting anyone nearby.

    • With this method, thieves can steal a vehicle in minutes, bypassing electronic security measures designed to protect the car.

  • These methods are becoming increasingly common in South Africa due to their simplicity and speed.

  • Criminals can clone keys, jam signals, and perform relay attacks with relatively low-tech equipment, making it easier for them to steal cars and avoid detection.

 

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE FROM THEFT:

Given the rise of these theft techniques, South African motorists need to take steps to protect their vehicles. Here are some effective security measures you can implement to safeguard your car from key cloning and theft:

  • STORE YOUR KEYS SECURELY:

    • To prevent relay attacks and key cloning, always store your keys in a secure location when you are not using them.

    • Keep your keys away from windows, doors, or places where criminals could easily amplify the signal.

    • Consider using a Faraday pouch or box, which blocks radio signals, ensuring that thieves cannot intercept the signal from your key fob.

  • INSTALL AN ALARM SYSTEM:

    • Even if your vehicle is equipped with a factory-installed alarm, it is a good idea to double-check that it is active and working.

    • Consider installing an aftermarket system if your car does not have an alarm.

    • A visible car alarm can act as a deterrent to thieves and increase the chances of recovery if your vehicle is stolen.

  • USE A STEERING LOCK OR PHYSICAL BARRIER:

    • While often seen as outdated, steering locks and other physical barriers remain an effective deterrent.

    • Many modern steering locks are less bulky and more discreet than the ones used in the past, making them just as effective without compromising the look of your car.

  • INVEST IN A STOLEN VEHICLE TRACKER:

    • GPS or GSM-based tracking systems can significantly increase the likelihood of recovering your car in the event of theft.

    • However, criminals may use jammers to interfere with these devices' signals.

    • To counteract this, invest in a high-quality tracking system that offers features like multi-band tracking and signal jamming alerts.

    • These systems can notify you and the authorities when a jammer is detected, allowing law enforcement to act quickly before the vehicle is lost for good.

  • CHECK THAT YOUR VEHICLE IS LOCKED:

    • It may seem like a simple measure, but double-checking that your car is locked can make a significant difference.

    • Even if your car locks automatically, confirming it is properly secured before leaving it unattended is essential.

    • This is especially important for keyless entry vehicles, where thieves may exploit any oversight.

  • ADD LAYERS OF SECURITY:

    • In addition to tracking devices and alarms, consider adding extra layers of security, such as a ghost immobiliser or additional lock systems.

    • These additional barriers make it harder for thieves to start your vehicle or gain access to its vital components.

 

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAR IS STOLEN:

  • Despite taking preventive measures, it is still possible that your car could be stolen.

  • If your vehicle is taken, you should immediately contact your local police to file a theft report.

  • This report is crucial for legal purposes and submitting a claim to your insurance provider.

  • Be sure to check that your insurance policy includes "All Perils" or "Comprehensive excluding collision or upset" coverage to ensure that your vehicle is covered in the event of theft.

 

As car theft techniques continue evolving in South Africa, motorists must be vigilant and

take proactive steps to protect their vehicles.

 

By understanding the methods thieves use to clone keys - such as relay attacks, key cloning, and signal jamming -

and implementing effective security measures like key storage solutions, tracking devices, and physical barriers,

you can significantly reduce the chances of your car being stolen.

 

Remember, extra vigilance can go a long way in keeping your vehicle safe and secure.

 

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Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

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