The rise in vehicle theft in the UK and how a Ghost Immobiliser protects your vehicle
The UK has witnessed a concerning rise in vehicle theft in recent years – as the official data proves.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that 129,159 vehicles were stolen in England and Wales between April 2023 and March 2024.
That’s a 19% increase from the previous year, but fewer than the 307,000 thefts in 2002/03.
However, 77% of reported vehicle thefts are never found.
That’s a huge number of Brits who have lost their pride and joy – and it doesn’t look like vehicle theft will fall anytime soon.
This growing vehicle theft trend is particularly concerning for owners of modern cars equipped with keyless entry systems, who may be unknowingly placing their vehicles at a higher risk.
Here, we look at the issue – and how you can protect your vehicle.
The growing vulnerability of keyless vehicles
Keyless entry systems, while offering convenience, have unfortunately opened a new avenue for thieves.
These systems rely on a key fob that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car, allowing it to be unlocked and started without needing a physical key.
However, that means tech-savvy criminals have developed devices that can exploit weaknesses in these systems, amplifying the fob’s signal and allowing them to gain access to the vehicle remotely.
Thieves using advanced vehicle theft devices
Modern thieves are no longer simply smashing car windows or picking locks.
They often utilise sophisticated electronic tools to bypass security measures. These tools can include:
- Relay attacks: Criminals position themselves near a victim’s home with a relay device that amplifies the key fob signal from inside the house. This can trick the car into thinking the key is present, allowing for entry and ignition
- Code grabbers: These devices capture the rolling code signal transmitted by the key fob when a button is pressed. This captured code can then be replayed to unlock and start the vehicle.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
However, there are steps that vehicle owners can take, and fitting a Ghost Immobiliser is one of them.
But what is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Essentially, this kit is an advanced security system designed to combat the vulnerabilities of modern vehicles.
Unlike traditional alarms, which may deter casual theft attempts but are often easy to circumvent, the Ghost Immobiliser works discreetly behind the scenes. Here’s what sets it apart:
- CAN bus technology: The immobiliser connects to the vehicle’s CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, the central nervous system of modern cars. This hidden integration makes it virtually undetectable by thieves searching for traditional alarm systems
- Unique PIN code: Unlike key fobs or remote controls, the Ghost Immobiliser requires a user-defined PIN code to be entered using the vehicle’s existing buttons, such as those on the steering wheel or dashboard. This PIN code can be customised to any length, adding another layer of complexity for potential thieves
- No key fobs or LEDs: The immobiliser eliminates the need for separate key fobs or LED indicators that can give away its location. This stealthy design makes it difficult for thieves to identify or disable the system.
Having a unique PIN code means there’s a lack of telltale key fobs or LEDs which makes it challenging for thieves to bypass, even with advanced electronic tools.
However, for high value cars, a multi-layered approach to security is necessary but there’s no doubt that the Ghost Immobiliser is a significant deterrent against car theft.
What are the benefits of a Ghost Immobiliser?
- Deters advanced theft techniques: Unlike alarms, which often rely on audible or visual alerts that can be ignored by experienced thieves, the Ghost Immobiliser silently renders the vehicle inoperable. Even if thieves gain access and bypass traditional security measures, the car will be unable to start without the correct PIN code
- Highly tamper-proof: Connecting directly to the vehicle’s CAN bus makes the immobiliser highly resistant to tampering. Traditional security systems often have easily accessible wires or components that can be cut or disabled by thieves. The Ghost Immobiliser, however, is deeply integrated within the vehicle’s system, making it difficult to locate or bypass
- Easy to use: Despite its advanced technology, the immobiliser is user-friendly. Once installed, entering the PIN code becomes a seamless part of your starting routine, requiring no additional key fobs or complex procedures
- Peace of mind: Knowing your vehicle is protected by a robust anti-theft system like the Ghost Immobiliser provides invaluable peace of mind. This allows you to park your car with confidence, whether at home, at work or running errands
- Insurance benefits: Some insurance companies recognise the added security provided by Ghost Immobilisers and may offer reduced premiums for vehicles equipped with this technology.
How to use a Ghost Immobiliser
Since the Ghost Immobiliser is a discreet security system that doesn’t require any additional key fobs or remote controls, how does it work? It’s all very simple and you follow these steps:
- Turn on the ignition: As you normally would, turn the ignition key to the ‘on’ position.
- Enter your PIN code: Using the existing buttons on your car’s dashboard or steering wheel, enter your unique PIN code. This code is set during the installation process and should be kept confidential
- Start the engine: Once the correct PIN code is entered, the Ghost Immobiliser will allow you to start the engine as usual.
However, if the PIN code is entered incorrectly, the car will not start.
Also, if you forget your PIN code, you’ll need to have it reset by a professional installer, which may involve extra costs.
Protect your vehicle with a Ghost Immobiliser
The rise in vehicle theft in the UK requires proactive measures to protect your cherished vehicle.
While keyless entry systems offer convenience, they also introduce vulnerabilities.
The Ghost Immobiliser, with its innovative approach to security, offers a robust defence against sophisticated theft techniques.
By investing in this discreet and user-friendly system, you can significantly reduce the risk of vehicle theft and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing your vehicle is safe.
