What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
The risk of security systems for cars being hacked by thieves is real, however the use of advanced anti-jamming technology and a vigilant surveillance can reduce it. Ghost immobilisers such as the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden within the vehicle and are not detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate by pressing buttons on the centre console as well as the doors.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers are modern security device designed to stop car theft. Its subtle design and secure nature make it a powerful deterrent against determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus of your vehicle and is programmed using your unique PIN number. The system will then stop your vehicles ignition until a set of buttons are pressed, making sure that the vehicle cannot be started without you knowing it.
This type of system is especially effective against modern-day thieves. There is no way to get around the ghost immobiliser. They could be able to clone your keys or take your car away using a relay attack.
There are a variety of various ghost immobilisers available on the market. These include CAN Phantom and Autowatch Phantom. Both are highly recommended as they're TASSA-verified and offer unrivalled security against key cloning attacks as well as relay attacks.
A ghost immobiliser does not emit radio signals, in contrast to traditional alarm systems. It's therefore virtually impossible to detect with common diagnostic tools, like OBD scanners. The fact that ghost immobilisers don't rely on any radio signals also makes it much harder to hack or disable.
A ghost immobiliser can be utilized in combination with other advanced security systems, like GPS tracking devices and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it more difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle, and eventually result in their arrest.
However, even the most well-equipped thieves are still finding ways to circumvent security systems. Some thieves use jamming equipment to interfere with the signal sent by the ghost immobiliser and your vehicle's ECU. Some thieves employ a method known as "spoofing" which is the process of sending fake messages to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These techniques aren't just expensive for thieves but can also cause significant damage to your vehicle. By staying vigilant and constantly updating your security systems, you will greatly reduce the chance of your vehicle being taken away.
How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?
An immobiliser is one of the most effective car security measures you can invest in. It stops your car from starting if a wrong code is entered along with the key fob. Additionally, it can deter thieves and recover your car after it's been stolen. However, determined criminals will discover ways to circumvent even the most robust security systems. That's why it's essential to implement multiple security measures and to update them regularly.
This is especially applicable to high-end vehicles, such as Porsches or Mercedes-Benzes. These vehicles are often targeted by thieves due to their value. A ghost immobiliser can be an inconspicuous and effective way to make it difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. It's a great addition to other security measures, such as GPS tracking devices or alarm systems.
The Autowatch Ghost is a stealthy immobiliser that doesn't need any new LED indicators or keypads. It connects to your vehicle's CAN system (Controller Area Network) and is then programmed to a unique pin code that you choose. This is entered through buttons on the steering wheel or on the center console. You can choose an array of up 20 characters to provide an extra layer of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means it's recognized by a number of insurance companies and official organizations.
Ghost immobilisers are also simple to turn off and on again when you need to take your car in for service or repairs they are an ideal tool for those who drive their vehicles frequently. However, they're not a replacement for a keyfob and are only to be used combination with one.
Many car owners are looking for advanced anti-theft protection because the threat of theft from vehicles is becoming more sophisticated. While an immobiliser used to be sufficient to prevent hotwiring, more tech-savvy thieves are utilizing new methods like relay car theft. This has led many vehicle owners to seek out ghost immobilisers as a way of protecting their vehicles but thieves are always finding ways to bypass these systems.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be avoided?
Ghost immobilisers are one of the most effective methods to protect your vehicle from theft. They are designed to work with a range of vehicles. They can be easily installed by an approved fitter, making it easy to have peace of mind while driving your most prized possession.
In contrast to other systems that rely on transponders or key fobs to operate, ghost immobilisers are a invisible, silent system that operates through the CAN bus in your vehicle. They can be installed without changing any of the original components, or rewiring any wires. They are the ideal choice for car owners who want to keep their vehicle looking good while adding a layer of safety.
A ghost immobiliser is almost impossible to bypass if installed correctly. The reason is that they require an unique code that can only be activated by pressing various combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle can alter the code, ensuring that only the driver is aware of how to activate it. The chances of the vehicle being stolen are significantly diminished.
There are ways to circumvent the Ghost Immobiliser, one of most effective vehicle security systems available. In certain instances there could be issues with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start feature. This is usually due to a mis-set-up however it could also be due to other reasons.
Another way that ghost immobilisers can be beaten is to use an app for mobile devices to deactivate the device. This method can only work in the event that the device is within Bluetooth range, and the smartphone is authorized by the vehicle owner. These apps may also be prone to connectivity issues and malfunctions that could cause the disarming procedure to failing.
It's important for vehicle owners to invest into a high-quality security solution, since car thieves are becoming more sophisticated. Ghost immobilisers can be a powerful, discreet solution that will deter the most skilled criminals from starting your car.
Countermeasures
Ghost immobilisers are undetectable to thieves because it doesn't use LED indicators or radio signals and it doesn't connect to the key fob. Instead, it is directly linked to the engine controller unit via CAN. This makes it tamperproof and impossible to take off or disable. It also works to protect against the most common ways of car theft like key duplicates.
The gangs of organized car thieves typically use diagnostics devices to detect circuit cuts made by security systems. However, the ghost immobiliser is not able to be detected by this method as it does not involve any circuit cuts. g28carkeys.co.uk doesn't rely on the owner of the vehicle having their key fob with them to activate the system because it's activated by entering a unique pin code sequence that only the owner knows and can be changed at anytime.
Another method used by thieves to bypass the ghost immobiliser is by using a device known as jammer. This device could disrupt the signals between your vehicle and the driver's fob. It allows the vehicle to start. However, the latest anti-jamming technology can stop this, as well as regular inspection for signs of interference.
Ghost immobilisers are an excellent way to prevent vehicle theft. They can also be combined with a tracking device. However, it is crucial to select a reputable provider and installer to ensure your device is installed correctly and compatible with your vehicle's electrical system. To ensure safety and quality, a TASSA-certified company is the best option.
Some insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles that are covered by this type of security. Find out from your insurer for the discount offered. Also, think about other options to increase the security of your vehicle. These include securing your keys as well as parking in well-lit areas and taking other precautionary measures. With the latest technology becoming more available to thieves, it's crucial to be aware and protect your investment.
