Car theft, once relatively uncomplicated, has evolved dramatically. With the introduction of modern alarm systems, traditional methods like the “screwdriver in the ignition” became outdated. Thieves seemed to prefer older models, such as Honda Accords, over newer vehicles. However, a resurgence in car thefts has emerged, particularly through relay hacks targeting keyless fob systems. This was highlighted by a recent incident in Canada, where a group of thieves managed to steal three Lexus cars from the same couple in just one summer.
CTV News has reported that Gail Downey and her husband were astounded to find both of their late-model Lexuses missing from their Ottawa driveway one Monday morning. The absence of the two cars was particularly shocking because one was a new replacement for a third Lexus that had been stolen in a similar manner back in June, using a relay device that deceived the vehicles into thinking the keyless fob was present.
The method is based on exploiting the unsecured connection between the key fob and the car’s system in keyless entry models. When a locked door is attempted to be opened, the vehicle emits a short-range signal searching for the fob. One thief remains close to the car with a relay device to intercept that signal and then transmits it to an accomplice using a second device. That accomplice then scans around the house until they successfully detect the fob, completing the connection. It’s then a simple matter of starting the car and driving away.
Forget the notion of taking your time—experienced criminals can steal a vehicle in less than 30 seconds. During the Downeys’ first robbery in June, several neighbors also found their driveways empty. Authorities indicated it resembled a professional operation, prompting the couple to store their key fobs in anti-signal cases at night. Yet, just recently, the thieves returned, managing to steal both of their new vehicles, with total insured losses exceeding $150,000 across the three stolen cars.
Gail Downey shared with CTV her uncertainty about purchasing another Lexus in light of these events. However, if she does decide to go that route, she plans to invest in a steering wheel lock. Although it seems incredibly unlucky for the same family to suffer three thefts, the Downeys can take solace in knowing they are not alone. The frequency of relay attacks has surged in recent years, coinciding with the growing prevalence of keyless entry systems and decreasing costs for relay technology. A study by the German auto safety group ADAC in 2016 revealed that at least 24 different car models could be stolen using this method, and ongoing theft reports suggest manufacturers have yet to find an effective solution.
Meanwhile, one can always keep their keys secured within a real Faraday cage. A microwave is also said to be effective for this purpose—just remember to retrieve your keys before using it to heat up food.
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