In 2019, the New Vehicle Security Assessment (NVSA) programme will be updated to include criteria designed to shut down vulnerability associated with keyless entry, along with a review of the criteria relating to parts identification.
The NVSA is the standard against which all new cars are evaluated as part of the insurance group rating.
Alongside this, some vehicle manufacturers are already introducing keys with motion sensors that deactivate the keys when not in use[4].
Thatcham have released some security tips for drivers with keyless entry systems, including:
To view a complete list of Thatcham's security tips, visit their 'mynewsdesk' webpage.
Other methods include keeping keys in metallised signal blocking devices, which are designed to protect electronic keys from relay attacks, and traditional anti-theft devices, such as steering-wheel locks, which are a visible deterrent to thieves.
With technology constantly evolving, and methods used by criminals continually changing, the industry is starting to recognise the importance of staying one step ahead where vehicle security is concerned.
References:
1 'Hundreds of popular cars ‘at risk of keyless theft’' (28/01/2019), BBC News
2 'Security risk in keyless cars uncovered' (24/03/2016), Which? News
3 'Thatcham Research Announces 2019 Updates to Mandatory Car Security Standards' (27/04/2018), Thatcham Research - mynewsdesk.com
4 'Thatcham plans standards upgrade to include keyless entry' (25/04/2018), MotorTrader.com