"With keyless and connected car technologies now the norm, anti-theft devices have evolved to protect cars' data signals and maintain the integrity of onboard computer systems."
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A number of effective anti-theft devices are currently available for customers to purchase, including OBD (On-board diagnostic) Port Locks, which prevent thieves using the OBD port to override the car's security system and start the engine.
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As well, Faraday pouches can act as a shield for keys, blocking thieves from hijacking the data signals and opening and starting a car.
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"We're also currently exploring fob-sleeping batteries, already popular in Europe. These batteries deactivate when not in use, meaning thieves can't 'wake them up' and access the key signal," Mr Wilkes added.
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Top tips to help prevent car theft
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NRMA Insurance encourages motorists to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of car theft:
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Install an OBD port lock to prevent security system overrides
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Use a Faraday pouch to block key signal interception
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Adopt fob-sleeping batteries to disable unused key signals
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Store keys safely at home, out of sight from doors and windows
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Theft prevention in the digital age
Beyond recovery and hazard response, NRMA Insurance is focused on helping Australians to protect their vehicles by staying one step ahead of modern car thieves.
Vehicle protection today is as much about securing data signals as it is about locking doors, Mr Wilkes said.
"Our NRMA Insurance Research Centre is the market leader in monitoring global trends and testing emerging anti-theft technologies designed to protect both vehicles and their digital systems.
"With keyless and connected car technologies now the norm, anti-theft devices have evolved to protect cars' data signals and maintain the integrity of onboard computer systems."
A number of effective anti-theft devices are currently available for customers to purchase, including OBD (On-board diagnostic) Port Locks, which prevent thieves using the OBD port to override the car's security system and start the engine.
As well, Faraday pouches can act as a shield for keys, blocking thieves from hijacking the data signals and opening and starting a car.
"We're also currently exploring fob-sleeping batteries, already popular in Europe. These batteries deactivate when not in use, meaning thieves can't 'wake them up' and access the key signal," Mr Wilkes added.
Top tips to help prevent car theft
NRMA Insurance encourages motorists to take proactive steps to reduce their risk of car theft:
Install an OBD port lock to prevent security system overrides
Use a Faraday pouch to block key signal interception
Adopt fob-sleeping batteries to disable unused key signals
Store keys safely at home, out of sight from doors and windows