Car theft is a growing problem, but researchers from the United States may have a solution to counter wireless key hacking.
Modern cars have become increasingly desirable targets for thieves, with the latter employing new techniques to achieve their goals. For example, electronic vehicle thefts now account for nearly 70% of all car thefts.
Researchers from the United States are currently working on a new device to combat car theft. It’s called the “Battery Sleuth,” and according to its features, it allows for the prevention of wireless car key hacking.
With the advent of wireless entry systems in cars, car keys have become particularly vulnerable to thieves. All it takes is a small electronic device to intercept the signal from the wireless key. This way, thieves can unlock and start the car without leaving any signs of forced entry.
While there are options like special cases to block the signal from your key or anti-theft devices such as a steering wheel lock to deter thieves from taking your car, these solutions may not be very practical for everyday use.
The new “Battery Sleuth” device is currently undergoing testing by researchers at the University of Michigan in the United States. This device allows the driver to intervene in the car’s battery, preventing car theft and stopping the thief from starting the engine.
To “unlock” the battery and thus start the car, the owner needs to input a digital code or authenticate using their fingerprint. Simultaneously, the system is designed to trigger the car’s alarm if too many incorrect codes are entered or if unrecognized fingerprints are detected.
According to the designers, the new anti-theft system offers 99.9% effectiveness against car theft using the wireless key signal. Tests have been conducted on eight cars, and the system appears to be impervious to bypassing or hacking. The development of this system was made possible through a significant $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation.
However, it may take several more years of research before this system can be installed in our vehicles. There are plans to produce an aftermarket anti-theft device that can be installed on any car model, as well as to offer this technology to automakers for direct integration into future vehicle models.
