As vehicle technology becomes more advanced, so do the methods used by criminals to steal them. Key hacking – sometimes called electronic theft, is now one of the most common techniques to access and steal modern cars.
Understanding how these attacks work is the first step towards preventing them. Below, we break down the three main methods and the best ways to protect and prevent theft of your vehicle.
Signal Blocking (Key Jamming)
Key jamming is one of the simplest yet most effective tactics used by criminals, particularly in busy public areas such as supermarket car parks and fuel stations. When you press the button on your key to lock the car, a thief nearby can use a jamming device to interrupt the signal. This prevents the locking command from reaching your vehicle — leaving it unlocked after you walk away.
Once inside, criminals may attempt to access the onboard diagnostic (OBD) port to interfere with the car’s security software and start the engine.
How to prevent key jamming:
Always confirm your vehicle is locked — look for the indicator flash, check mirrors folding (if applicable), or physically test a door handle.
Consider using an OBD port lock, which adds a physical barrier and makes electronic tampering far more difficult.
Be alert in high-risk locations, especially where you may be distracted.
Relay Attacks (Keyless Entry Theft)
If your vehicle features keyless entry, it may be vulnerable to a relay attack. This form of theft typically involves two criminals working together. One stands close to your home or to where your key is stored and uses a relay device to capture its signal. The second criminal stands next to your car with another device that receives this extended signal.
To the car, it appears the key is right next to it — so it unlocks and, in many cases, can be started and driven away.
Although more common outside homes, relay attacks can also occur in public places such as shopping centres.
Ways to protect against relay theft:
Disable the keyless entry feature in your vehicle’s settings (usually found in the Security or Comfort menus).
Store your keys in an RF-blocking (Faraday) pouch, which prevents signals from escaping.
At home, keep keys away from doors and windows. Even simple metal tins can reduce signal strength.
Use spare keys wisely — they should also be stored in signal-blocking containers.
Direct Wiring Access
Some thieves bypass both the key and the OBD port by targeting the vehicle’s wiring. This may involve accessing cables through headlights, wheel wells, or body panels. With the right equipment, they can manipulate the wiring to override security systems.
While this method is less common, it is often used on high-value vehicles.
Recommended protection:
Use visible physical deterrents such as robust steering wheel locks. These significantly slow down thieves and increase the chance they will abandon the attempt.
Park in well-lit, secure locations or garages when possible.
Consider additional aftermarket security, such as immobilisers or trackers.
Our Thoughts
Car theft is evolving, but so are the ways to protect yourself and some mean going back to traditional methods such as steering locks or faraday pouches.
Simple daily habits include checking your car is locked, using faraday pouches and adding visible deterents. All of which can dramatically reduce your risk.
For those leasing or subscribing to a vehicle through Cocoon Vehicles, safeguarding your car not only protects your personal assets but also supports the long-term condition and security.
