As automotive technology improves and systems develop more advanced capabilities, modern vehicles become increasingly complex with each new release. While this is true, criminals are also seeking new ways to infiltrate these systems to steal vehicles.
In the United States alone, over 1 million cars were stolen in 2022, resulting in more than $8 billion in damages annually for Americans and insurance companies. This is an ever-growing issue, with criminals devising bolder and more sophisticated vehicle theft methods.
High-Tech Car Theft Methods
As cars become more advanced, thieves are also upgrading their vehicle theft techniques. The thieves’ intentions remain the same, but their skills have changed. Below are some high-tech methods used by criminals to steal cars.
The intentions of thieves remain the same, but their skills have changed.
Network Hacking or CAN Interference
Vehicles have a network that integrated systems use to communicate with each other. These systems are set up to control each other when necessary. This network is called the Controller Area Network (CAN or CAN bus is a stable bus standard used for vehicles, particularly automobiles).
This network is designed to be closed, and automotive systems continuously use it to operate together. Because it is a closed network specifically designed for automotive systems, it is highly vulnerable to hacking.
Car thieves can infiltrate this network and access the vehicle’s control computer systems. This includes the ignition system and any other system that utilizes CAN. Thieves can access the CAN bus by connecting to a physical port on the car or through wireless networks. They can access the engine control unit, steal a copy of the key fob code, and duplicate it to create a copy of the smart key.
CAN is designed to be a closed network.
Wireless Key Hacking
Modern cars come equipped with systems that allow for ignition and door unlocking with smart keys. This differs from earlier designs where drivers had to press a button to enter their vehicles. Modern keyless entry systems merely require the smart key to be detected via proximity sensors, allowing drivers to open doors by simply touching the handle.
Thieves have devised a method to “unlock” these systems. The smart key continuously transmits a signal to the car, and thieves can use devices to copy this signal and transmit it to the vehicle. This theft method tricks the car into thinking the smart key has transmitted the signal, allowing the thief to start the vehicle and drive away.
Thieves have devised a “wireless unlocking” method for stealing cars.
USB Attacks
This method can be compared to the old-school “hot-wiring” techniques used by car thieves in the past. However, instead of stripping wires to start the car, they use a USB connector to gain access to the ignition system and drive away.
USB hacking exploits design vulnerabilities in Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Thieves break into the car and look for a gap in the steering column. They then plug in a USB connector into the port and start the vehicle. This method of car theft gained notoriety after a group of young thieves in Milwaukee posted their exploits on social media.
Thieves can use a USB connector to access the ignition system and drive away.
What Are Automakers Doing to Prevent Car Theft?
Kia and Hyundai have addressed security concerns by developing anti-theft software for millions of affected vehicles. The software extends the alarm sound from 30 seconds to one minute and requires drivers to insert the key into the ignition to start the vehicle.
Ford is leveraging AI in its efforts to enhance automotive security. The automaker is collaborating with ADT (an American security company that provides electronic security services for residential and small business, fire safety, and related alarm monitoring services across the United States) to create an AI-based security system called Canopy, which uses cameras and sensors to detect threats. Truck owners can install the camera system on their vehicle’s cargo area.
The system will emit alerts when it detects sounds such as glass breaking or metal cutting. Additionally, Canopy will send notifications to vehicle owners via an app whenever a threat is detected.
Why Are Electric Vehicles Rarely Stolen?
The Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) reports that electric vehicles are less likely to be stolen than other vehicles due to their advanced security features. Engineers continue to develop and test new technologies to provide consumers peace of mind every time they park or charge their cars. Below are some modern security features of electric vehicles that help deter thieves.
Facial Recognition
One of the best security features for mobile devices is now being used to protect modern cars. Facial recognition technology allows drivers to enter and start their vehicles by looking into one of the car’s external cameras.
The electric SUV Genesis GV60 offers this high-tech feature, allowing owners to encode four faces into the system. Genesis ensures that all user data will be encrypted in each unit, meaning no biometric data is uploaded and stored on its cloud servers.
Facial recognition technology is applied to enhance vehicle security.
Car Immobilizers
Immobilizers are a great addition to vehicle security as they prevent thieves from driving away with stolen cars. This has become a standard feature in modern vehicles, including electric cars. This security feature uses an encrypted key to exchange data with the vehicle during ignition. Even if a thief manages to get inside the car, they won’t be able to start the vehicle without the coded key.
GPS Tracking
GPS tracking devices are an excellent way to locate vehicles in real-time. While they may not completely prevent car theft, they significantly improve the chances of recovering stolen vehicles. Some tracking devices even incorporate Car Immobilizers technology, allowing vehicle owners to remotely disable their cars if they are stolen.
Fingerprint Authentication
Some electric vehicles are also adopting biometric technology in their advanced designs. The Mercedes AMG EQS 53 and Genesis GV60 feature fingerprint sensors that allow drivers to access various functions. The EQS 53 uses authorized fingerprints to access driver profiles, while the GV60 allows drivers to start and drive the car.
Some vehicles are incorporating biometric technology into their advanced designs.
Smartphone Key Technology
Tesla owners were the first to experience this technology – it allows users to enter and drive their cars using their smartphones. The automaker has utilized Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to pair the vehicle with the owner’s smartphone for convenient and secure access.
Security Cameras
Electric vehicles – especially those with partially automated driving systems – employ sophisticated cameras for various purposes. In addition to assisting drivers in controlling the vehicle, these cameras also help prevent car theft.
Tesla vehicles feature Sentry Mode, allowing owners to monitor their cars even when the vehicle is turned off. Owners can access the front and rear cameras remotely via their smartphones in real time. This feature also detects suspicious activity around the vehicle and switches to alert mode when activated.
