A New Kind of Car Theft Is on the Rise
Imagine waking up, coffee in hand, only to find your car is missing. The doors were locked, there’s no broken glass, and your car keys are still sitting in the hallway drawer.
This is not a scene from a sci-fi movie—it’s the reality of modern keyless car theft, a growing problem that targets newer vehicles with push-to-start systems.
These crimes happen fast, silently, and often without leaving any trace. And your key fob—the same device that makes getting into your car so convenient—is actually the weak link.
How Keyless Car Theft Works
Most newer vehicles use RFID (radio frequency identification) key fobs that constantly send out a signal, even when not in use. When you’re near your vehicle, it recognizes the signal and unlocks the doors or starts the engine.
But that same signal can be hijacked.
Thieves use relay devices—readily available online for under $100—to pick up your fob’s signal from outside your house, even through walls. One criminal stands near your front door, capturing the signal, while another stands by your car with a relay device that mimics the fob.
In under a minute, your car is gone. No broken windows. No hotwiring. Just high-tech theft.
Why Aluminum Foil Can Stop It
It may sound outdated, but wrapping your key fob in aluminum foil helps block its signal. Foil acts as a poor man’s Faraday cage, creating a shield that prevents your key fob from communicating with relay devices.
It’s not a perfect solution, but it’s an immediate, low-cost layer of protection that can reduce your vulnerability—especially overnight when your car is sitting unattended.
Faraday Bags: A Modern Solution
If aluminum foil feels inconvenient or unsightly, consider upgrading to a Faraday pouch or RFID key signal blocker.
These small, lined pouches are designed to block radio frequencies, protecting your key fob from being scanned. They’re compact, discreet, and widely available for under $20.
Search terms to find the best options:
Faraday pouch for car key
Best Faraday bags 2025
RFID key signal blocker pouch
Look for pouches specifically rated for automotive key fobs. Some even include dual-layer designs or slots for extra keys, credit cards, or IDs.
Why Older Adults Are at Higher Risk
Keyless car theft often targets older adults and retirees for several reasons:
Driveways over garages: Many seniors park in driveways for convenience, leaving the vehicle more exposed.
Key storage habits: Keys are often left near the door or in purses by entryways—prime locations for signal scanning.
Newer cars gifted by family: Grandkids may gift or co-sign for tech-loaded vehicles, even if the owner is unaware of digital risks.
Less awareness of new theft methods: Many people still believe car theft requires physical access, and aren’t watching for electronic crimes.
Bottom line: Thieves know who to target, and keyless cars are often found in quiet neighborhoods where criminals can work unnoticed.
Real Cases: Theft Without a Trace
Phoenix, AZ – A retired couple’s SUV was stolen without a sound while they slept. The police later confirmed a signal amplifier was used to mimic the key fob’s signal from just outside the home. The couple’s keys were still in the kitchen.
Toronto, Canada – Over 9,000 vehicles were stolen in one year, many through relay attacks. In response, police began handing out Faraday pouches at senior centers.
London, UK – Surveillance footage shows thieves stealing a BMW in under 90 seconds using a signal relay, all while the owners watched TV inside.
What Automakers Are Doing
Some car manufacturers have begun addressing this issue with features like:
Sleep mode fobs – Keys that deactivate after a period of inactivity
Ultra-low signal fobs – Transmit only when touched
Proximity limitations – Systems that won’t activate unless the fob is within inches of the door handle
However, most of these features are found only on newer or luxury models. Until such features become standard, it’s up to the owner to take proactive steps.
5 Easy Ways to Prevent Keyless Car Theft
Protecting your vehicle doesn’t require a degree in cybersecurity. Here are five simple, affordable steps you can take:
Wrap your fob in aluminum foil.
Not fancy, but it works in a pinch—especially overnight.
Invest in a Faraday pouch or box.
Place your keys inside a Faraday pouch or RFID blocking container anytime you’re not driving.
Keep your keys away from entry points.
Store them far from doors and windows to reduce the chance of signal interception.
Use a steering wheel lock.
Even if thieves manage to unlock your car, they won’t be able to drive away easily.
Park in a garage or well-lit area.
Visibility and physical barriers make your car a less attractive target.
Final Thought: Better Safe Than Sorry
In today’s world of high-tech crime, sometimes the best defense is the simplest one. Whether you choose aluminum foil or a dedicated Faraday pouch, taking one small step now could save you thousands in theft-related loss, inconvenience, and insurance headaches.
So tonight, before you turn out the lights, take one extra step.
Protect your keys.
Protect your car.
And don’t let convenience become your biggest vulnerability.
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