What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves have been developing ways to bypass security systems for cars, however advanced anti-jamming technology as well as vigilant monitoring can mitigate these risks. Ghost immobilisers such as the CAN Phantom and the Autowatch Ghost are hidden in the vehicle, and are not detected by scanners for diagnostics, and utilize buttons on the centre door or console to communicate, making them very difficult to break.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A ghost immobiliser is a security system that has modern technology designed to stop car theft. Its design is discreet and it is difficult to hack, making it a formidable deterrent to determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus in your vehicle and is programmed by your unique PIN code. The system will block your vehicle's ignition until you press a series buttons, ensuring it can't start without you knowing.
This type of system is particularly effective against modern-day thieves. Although they might be able to clone keys or steal your vehicle with a relay attack, there's no easy method to bypass the ghost immobiliser.
There are many various ghost immobilisers available on the market. They include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both are highly recommended since they're TASSA-verified and offer unrivalled protection against key cloning attacks as well as relay attacks.
In contrast to traditional alarm systems, a ghost immobiliser doesn't send any radio signals. It's therefore virtually impossible to detect using standard diagnostic tools, like OBD scanners. The fact that a ghost immobiliser doesn't rely on any radio signals makes it much harder to hack or disable.
Ghost immobilisers work with other security devices that are more advanced, such as GPS tracking and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it harder for thieves to steal vehicles, and ultimately could result in their arrest.
However, even the most well-equipped thieves continue to find ways to circumvent security systems. For instance, some criminals employ jamming devices in order to disrupt the signal between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves employ a method known as "spoofing" which involves sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These methods are not just expensive for thieves, but can also cause severe damage to your vehicle. By staying vigilant and constantly updating your security systems, you can greatly reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser function?
An immobiliser is among the most effective security measures you can invest in. It stops your car from starting if a wrong code is entered alongside the key fob, and it can help deter thieves and recover your vehicle after it has been taken. But determined thieves will find ways to get around even the most effective security systems. That's why it's important to implement multiple security measures and update them frequently.
This is particularly applicable to high-end vehicles, such as Porsches or Mercedes-Benzes. These cars are frequently targeted by thieves due to their value. A ghost immobiliser is an ingenuous and effective method to make it more difficult for thieves to start your vehicle, and is an excellent addition to other security measures, such as an alarm system or GPS tracking devices.
The Autowatch Ghost immobiliser does not require a new keypad or any LED indicators, and is inaccessible to thieves. It is connected to your vehicle's CAN (Controller Area Network) system and is programmed with a unique pin code that you can choose that is entered using buttons in the steering wheel or in the center console. You can also choose one that is made up of up to 20 characters, which provides you with a high-security degree of protection. The Autowatch Ghost has been TASSA-verified which means it's acknowledged by official organizations and insurance companies.
Ghost immobilisers are also easy to switch off and back on again when you have to take your vehicle to a repair or service they are an excellent asset for those who frequently drive their cars. They are not a replacement for a keyfob and should only be used in conjunction with one.
Many car owners are looking for a more sophisticated anti-theft system as the threat of theft from vehicles is getting more sophisticated. In the past the immobiliser could be enough to stop hotwiring. However, the more sophisticated criminals are now using new strategies, such as relaying stolen cars. The Key Lab of cars have sought out ghost immobilisers to secure their automobiles. However, thieves have always found ways to circumvent them.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be escaped?
Ghost immobilisers are an extremely effective method to protect your vehicle against theft. They are designed to work with a wide range of vehicles. They can be easily installed by a certified fitter, making it possible to have peace of mind while driving your most prized possession.
In contrast to other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs to function ghost immobilisers operate invisible, silent system that is controlled by the CAN bus in your vehicle. This means they can be installed without the need to alter any of the original components, or rewire any wires. They are the best option for those who wish to keep their vehicle looking nice while adding a layer of safety.
Ghost immobilisers are almost impossible to disable if installed correctly. This is because they require a unique pin code sequence, which is entered by pressing various combinations of buttons already present in the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle can alter the code to ensure that only the driver knows the best way to activate it. The chances of the vehicle being stolen are greatly reduced.
However, despite being one of the most effective types of security for vehicles however, there are a few ways it can be hacked. In some instances there may be issues with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start feature. This is usually due to a wrong set-up but it could also be due to other causes.
A mobile app can also be used to get around an immobiliser that is ghostly. However, it's important to keep in mind that this method is only available when the device is within Bluetooth range and the smartphone is authorized by the owner of the vehicle. It's also important to bear in mind that these apps are prone to issues like connectivity problems and faulty operation that could result in the disarming process not working properly.
With so many car thieves becoming more sophisticated, it's essential for owners of vehicles to invest in a high-quality security system. Ghost immobilisers can be an effective, discreet solution that will deter the most skilled criminals from starting your vehicle.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser is not detectable by thieves as it does not utilize radio signals or LED indicators and is not connected to the key fob. It is instead directly connected to the engine control unit using CAN. It is therefore difficult to disable, remove or tamper with. It also helps protect against the most common ways of theft from vehicles, such as key duplicates.
Organised car thief gangs frequently use diagnostics reading devices to identify circuit cuts made by security systems, but the ghost immobiliser is not able to be detected through this method because it does not cause any cuts to the circuit. It doesn't depend on the car owner carrying their key fob with them to activate the system because it's activated by entering the pin code in a unique sequence that only the owner knows and can change at anytime.
Another method used by thieves to bypass the ghost immobiliser is using a device called jammer. This is a device which can interfere with signals between your vehicle and the driver fob which allows them to start the engine. Advanced anti-jamming technologies and regular checks for indications of tampering could help prevent this.
Ghost immobilisers are an excellent way to prevent vehicle theft and can be used conjunction with an electronic tracking system. However, it is essential to choose a reputable supplier and installer to ensure your device is installed correctly and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. To ensure safety and quality an TASSA-certified business is the best choice.
Certain insurers offer discounts for vehicles that have this type of security. Check with your insurer for the discount offered. Also, look into other methods to increase the security of your vehicle. This could include locking your keys, parking in well-lit areas and taking other preventative measures. It is important to protect your investment and be vigilant using the most recent technology available to thieves.